Common name: Teardrop sleeper-goby
General information
The Longfin Goby, Valenciennea longipinnis, also known as the Blueband Goby or Bluecheek Goby, is a distinctive and attractive fish that can make a fascinating addition to a reef or fish-only aquarium. This species is known for its elongated fins and striking blue accents on its cheeks, which add a splash of color to the tank. They are sand sifters by nature, playing a crucial role in the maintenance of a clean and healthy substrate by consuming detritus and uneaten food.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 150 liter (40 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sifts sand for food, needs a deep bed
- Diet
- Detritivore Enjoys a varied diet, benefits from live foods
- Social
- Pair Pairs are harmonious, best in pairs
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusSleeper GobiesValenciennea
- SpeciesTeardrop sleeper-gobyValenciennea longipinnis (Lay & Bennett, 1839)
- SynonymsCalleleotris longipinnis (Lay & Bennett, 1839)Eleotriodes longipinnis (Lay & Bennett, 1839)Eleotris ikeineur Montrouzier, 1857Eleotris lineatooculatus Kner, 1867Eleotris lineooculatus Kner, 1867Eleotris longipinnis Lay & Bennett, 1839Eleotris taeniura Macleay, 1881Valencienea longipinnis (Lay & Bennett, 1839)Valencienna longipinnis (Lay & Bennett, 1839)Valenciennae longipinnis (Lay & Bennett, 1839)Valenciennea longispinnis (Lay & Bennett, 1839)
Care
Longfin Gobies require an aquarium with a sandy bottom where they can exhibit their natural sifting behavior. They are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tank mates. However, they should not be kept with aggressive species that may harass them. These gobies are known to jump, so a well-fitted aquarium lid is essential to prevent escape. A diet of meaty foods and marine pellets will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, Valenciennea longipinnis has been known to spawn, with the pair forming a monogamous relationship. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Breeding these gobies in captivity can be challenging, and raising the fry requires a specialized setup with appropriate food sources like rotifers and baby brine shrimp.
Symbiosis
While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish and anemones, Longfin Gobies do contribute to the tank's ecosystem by sifting through the sand, which helps aerate the substrate and prevent the buildup of harmful gases.
Habitat
The natural habitat of the Longfin Goby includes shallow lagoons and coral reefs with sandy bottoms, where they can be found in the Indo-Pacific region. They are often observed in pairs or small groups, burrowing and sifting through the sand to find food.