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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 40 litres / 10.57 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 6.0cm / 2.36inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 5.04dgH / 90ppm - 20.00dgH / 357ppm |
| pH | 7.0-8.5 |
General Description: The Desert Goby, scientifically known as Chlamydogobius Eremius, belongs to the Gobiidae family and falls under the Perciformes classification order. This species is an opportunistic omnivore with a tendency towards algae and herbivorous matter. It has a unique elongated intestine and is known for its voracious eating habits. Adult Desert Gobies can grow up to 6.0cm in size.
Aquarium Setup: To house the Desert Goby, a minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended. The ideal tank setup includes a sandy substrate or fine-grade gravel. Decorate the tank with rocky structures, terracotta pipes, or plant pots to create crevices and caves for shelter. A moderate water flow is preferred, and additional marine salt can be added if desired. The water conditions should maintain a pH range of 7.0-8.5, hardness of 90-357ppm, and a temperature between 20-28°C (see table).
Behaviour: Desert Gobies are best kept alone due to their territorial and occasionally aggressive nature. If keeping them with other fish, choose robust, peaceful species that occupy the upper part of the water column. Male Desert Gobies can exhibit aggressive behavior, especially during spawning periods, necessitating close observation. Providing sufficient cover in the aquarium allows subdominant individuals to seek shelter.
Feeding and Diet: These Gobies accept most dried foods but thrive when offered small live and frozen invertebrates like Artemia and Daphnia. Regular offerings of green foods are recommended to mimic their herbivorous tendencies. Care should be taken not to overfeed as Desert Gobies are voracious eaters.
Reproduction & Dimorphism: Desert Gobies deposit their eggs in caves or crevices, with males fiercely guarding them until hatching. They can spawn year-round in captivity, with an incubation period of 10-17 days. Male Desert Gobies display vibrant colors when in good condition and have larger jaws compared to females. Sexual dimorphism is also evident in the length and shape of the urogenital papillae.
Habitat and Distribution: Endemic to the Lake Eyre drainage basin in South Australia, Desert Gobies inhabit freshwater springs, artesian bores, and ephemeral waterholes with rocky substrates and cover. They can tolerate extreme variations in temperature, pH, salinity, and oxygen levels, showcasing adaptability to challenging environmental conditions. The species is widely distributed across southern and western parts of the basin.