Common name: Twin-spotted shrimp-goby
General information
The Ambanoro Shrimp Goby, scientifically known as Vanderhorstia ambanoro, is a small and colorful fish that is a member of the goby family. This species is known for its striking appearance, with a pattern of blue, white, and orange stripes that run the length of its body, making it a visually appealing addition to any saltwater aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers sandy substrate for burrowing
- Symbiosis
- Yes May pair with shrimp gobies
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Pairs well, can be territorial
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, especially in pairs
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusShrimp GobiesVanderhorstia
- SpeciesTwin-spotted shrimp-gobyVanderhorstia ambanoro (Fourmanoir, 1957)
- SynonymsCryptocentrus ambanoro Fourmanoir, 1957Cryptocentrus fasciaventris Smith, 1959Vanderhorstia ambonoro (Fourmanoir, 1957)Vanderhorstia fasciaventris (Smith, 1959)
Care
Ambanoro Shrimp Gobies are relatively hardy and can adapt to life in a well-established aquarium. They require a sandy substrate to burrow and create their homes. These gobies are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates, but they should not be housed with aggressive species that may outcompete them for food or disturb their burrows.
Reproduction
Like many gobies, Vanderhorstia ambanoro forms monogamous pairs and often spawns in captivity. The pair will lay their eggs in a secure location, such as within their burrow, and both parents may guard the eggs until they hatch.
Symbiosis
An interesting aspect of the Ambanoro Shrimp Goby's behavior is its symbiotic relationship with certain species of pistol shrimp. The shrimp maintains the burrow while the goby keeps watch for predators. This mutualistic relationship provides the shrimp with a lookout, and in return, the goby gets a clean and secure home.
Habitat
Vanderhorstia ambanoro is native to the waters around Madagascar. It typically inhabits shallow coastal reefs and lagoons, often found at depths where it can easily burrow into the sandy bottom.