Gobiodon atrangulatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Green Clown Goby, scientifically known as Gobiodon atrangulatus, is a small, stocky fish with a disproportionately large head in comparison to its body size. Commonly found in the reefs of the Indo Pacific, this species typically inhabits both soft and hard coral colonies. Their coloration ranges from yellow to greenish-tan, adorned with striking orange vertical stripes on their head.

Aquarium Suitability

The Green Clown Goby is deemed suitable for aquariums with a minimum size of 37 liters, preferably with branching coral structures within a 10-gallon tank or larger. While generally peaceful towards other fish species, they may exhibit aggression towards their own kind in smaller tanks, hence, they are best kept with docile tank mates. Their compatibility with reef environments makes them a great addition to reef aquariums featuring polyp corals, although caution is advised due to their tendency to nip at certain SPS corals.

Care and Hardiness

Categorized as an easy-to-care-for species, the Green Clown Goby thrives in water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a carbonate hardness between 8-12 dKH, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. Their peaceful temperament and small size make them an excellent choice for beginner aquarists interested in colorful marine fish.

Reef Suitability

Reef-compatible, the Green Clown Goby enhances the aesthetic appeal of reef aquariums, as they enjoy swimming and seeking shelter among coral polyps. Despite their potential to lay eggs on coral branches, resulting in tissue recession in certain SPS corals, under favorable conditions, the affected corals can regenerate the lost tissue.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for the Green Clown Goby, ensure the presence of branching coral structures to mimic its natural habitat. Additionally, incorporating hiding spots among the coral formations is recommended to cater to their behavior of seeking refuge within the reef environment.

Feeding and Diet

As carnivores, the diet of the Green Clown Goby should consist of a varied selection of foods, including brine shrimp, frozen mysis shrimp, table shrimp, and carnivorous frozen food preparations. Providing a diverse diet ensures their nutritional needs are met in captivity.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Clown gobies, including the Green Clown Goby, are known to spawn in aquarium settings. It is essential to monitor their interactions in the tank, especially if Acropora sp. or similar SPS corals are present, as their reproductive behavior may impact coral health. Despite potential challenges, successful captive reproduction can be achieved with proper care and monitoring.

Habitat and Distribution

Within their natural habitat, Green Clown Gobies are commonly found in the coral reefs of the Indo Pacific region. Their preference for soft and hard coral colonies, where they can swim and hide among the polyps, highlights their symbiotic relationship with coral ecosystems.