Common name: Ornate shrimpgoby
General information
The Ornate Shrimpgoby, Vanderhorstia ornatissima, is a small, vibrantly colored fish known for its striking appearance and interesting behavior. It is a member of the goby family, characterized by its elongated body, large eyes, and distinctive coloration which includes a series of blue and orange stripes and spots that run the length of its body, making it a visually appealing addition to any reef aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum volume
- 75 liter (20 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 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
- Symbiosis
- Yes May coexist with shrimp
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
- Social
- Pair Pairs are often monogamous
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyGobyGobiidae
- GenusShrimp GobiesVanderhorstia
- SpeciesOrnate shrimpgobyVanderhorstia ornatissima Smith, 1959
Care
Ornate Shrimpgobies are relatively hardy and suitable for most reef aquariums. 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 disrupt their burrows. A diet of small, meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, Vanderhorstia ornatissima may display breeding behavior. They are known to form monogamous pairs and spawn within their burrows. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch.
Symbiosis
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Ornate Shrimpgoby is its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp of the genus Alpheus. The shrimp maintains the burrow while the goby stands guard, warning the shrimp of approaching predators with distinctive body movements. This mutualistic relationship is not only intriguing to observe but also provides a dynamic element to the aquarium ecosystem.
Habitat
Vanderhorstia ornatissima is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to the Philippines, and north to Japan. They inhabit sandy and rubble substrates in coastal reefs and lagoons, often in association with their shrimp partners.