Asterropteryx semipunctatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Biota Starry Goby, scientifically known as Asterropteryx semipunctatus, is a small, hardy fish with a star-spangled appearance, featuring bright iridescent blue spots on a dusky, mottled body color. Native to the vast Indo-Pacific Ocean, this species is distributed from the Persian Gulf and Red Sea to the Hawaiian Islands, with a habitat encompassing sandy, rubble zones in shallow protected bays, coral reefs, lagoons, and tidal estuaries.

Aquarium Suitability

This species, known for its hardiness, is an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned aquarists. Captive-bred Starry Gobies are particularly advantageous as they are more accustomed to the conditions in home aquariums. A peaceful and shy fish, the Biota Starry Goby rarely exhibits aggression towards other tank mates, making it suitable for community setups.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

With a temperament classified as peaceful, the Biota Starry Goby should be housed in a mature aquarium of at least 10 gallons in size. It thrives in a well-established setup with copepods, live rock, live sand, and ample hiding spots. This species prefers sharing its space with fish of peaceful nature and should not be kept with more aggressive tank mates.

Reef Suitability

Reef enthusiasts will find the Biota Starry Goby suitable for their setups, as it is categorized as reef-compatible. Its peaceful demeanor and small size make it a great addition to a reef tank environment.

Aquarium Setup

For an optimal setup, provide a mature aquarium of 10 gallons or larger with an abundance of copepods, live rock, live sand, and hiding places. Tank mates should consist of peaceful fish, avoiding aggressive species.

Behaviour

This species tends to spend the majority of its time busy around a preferred burrow or hole, engaging in typical goby behavior. Multiple individuals can coexist in larger aquariums given the appropriate tank mates.

Feeding and Diet

Being a carnivorous species, the diet of the Biota Starry Goby should include a variety of meaty foods and vegetable matter, such as mysis shrimp, phyto- and zooplankton, and flake foods. Feeding small meals multiple times a day is recommended, mimicking its natural feeding patterns.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Dimorphism in the Biota Starry Goby may include subtle differences between males and females, such as size variations. Captive reproduction of this species can be a rewarding experience for dedicated aquarists.

Habitat and Distribution

The Biota Starry Goby's natural habitat ranges across the Indo-Pacific Ocean, from the Red Sea to southern Japan and northern Australia. It thrives in sandy, rubble zones in shallow protected bays, coral reefs, lagoons, and tidal estuaries.