Koumansetta hectori

Datasheet

General Description

The Hector's Goby, scientifically known as Koumansetta hectori and commonly referred to as Hector's Hover Goby, displays a striking bluish-black body adorned with vibrant yellow horizontal stripes and a distinctive eyespot on its dorsal fin.

Aquarium Suitability

This species is well-suited to a minimum tank size of 10 gallons, providing ample hiding spots within the aquarium. Hector's Goby is non-aggressive towards other tank mates and is considered reef-compatible, making it a versatile addition to reef setups. It aids in tank maintenance by sifting sand and efficiently grazing on hair algae without causing harm to invertebrates in the tank.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Hector's Goby falls under the category of moderate care requirements, being a peaceful nano-fish suitable for marine environments. With a hardiness that allows it to thrive in stable water conditions, this species prefers a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) between 8-12.

Reef Suitability

The Hector's Goby is deemed suitable for reef aquariums due to its peaceful nature and compatibility with coral ecosystems. This species contributes positively to reef environments by assisting in sand sifting and controlling algae growth.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, a well-maintained tank that mirrors the Hector's Goby natural habitat should be provided, including ample hiding places, moderate water flow, and a sandy substrate. Maintaining stable water parameters, regular water changes, and offering a varied diet are essential for their well-being.

Behaviour

Known for their peaceful temperament, Hector's Gobies exhibit social and inquisitive behavior within aquarium settings. They are active sand sifters and can often be observed grazing on algae, contributing to the overall cleanliness of the tank.

Feeding and Diet

As omnivores, Hector's Gobies have diverse dietary preferences, consuming a mixture of live, frozen, and prepared marine foods. Their diet should include algae, worms, and enriched foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp to ensure proper nutrition and health.

Dimorphism

Hector's Gobies do not exhibit significant dimorphism, with both males and females displaying similar physical characteristics. In captivity, successful reproduction can be achieved with proper husbandry practices and suitable environmental conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to marine environments, Hector's Gobies are commonly found in the Western Pacific Ocean, specifically in regions like Fiji and Indonesia. Their natural habitat consists of sandy bottoms near coral reefs, where they forage for food and seek shelter in crevices and burrows.