Common name: Red-spotted dwarfgoby
General information
The Red-spotted Pygmy Goby, scientifically known as Trimma rubromaculatum, is a diminutive and colorful species that adds a touch of vibrancy to any reef aquarium. This species is part of the Gobiidae family, which is known for its diversity and the often benthic lifestyle of its members. The Red-spotted Pygmy Goby is particularly appreciated for its small size and the red spots that adorn its body, making it a visually appealing addition to nano and pico reef tanks.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 40 liter (11 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 4 cm (1½″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers caves and overhangs
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small live or frozen foods
- Social
- Harem Can be kept in small groups
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusPygmy GobiesTrimma
- SpeciesRed-spotted dwarfgobyTrimma rubromaculatum Allen & Munday, 1995
Care
Trimma rubromaculatum is a hardy species that can thrive in a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They prefer tanks with plenty of live rock and crevices to hide in and explore. Due to their small size, they are best kept in smaller aquariums where they are less likely to be outcompeted for food by larger tank mates. A varied diet of small live and frozen foods such as copepods, brine shrimp, and daphnia will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Red-spotted Pygmy Gobies are known to spawn in small caves or under overhangs, where they lay adhesive eggs that are guarded by the male until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if the environment is stable and there are multiple individuals to form pairs. Observing their breeding behavior can be a fascinating experience for the aquarist.
Habitat
Trimma rubromaculatum is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to northern Australia. They inhabit coral reefs and rubble slopes, typically at depths ranging from 3 to 40 meters. Their natural environment is characterized by clear, warm waters where they can find an abundance of microfauna to feed on.