Taenioides Cirratus

Datasheet

General Description: The Bearded Worm Goby, scientifically known as Taenioides Cirratus, is a peculiar goby species sought after by enthusiasts for its unusual appearance and behavior. This mud-burrowing fish features greatly reduced eyes, specialized bronchial chambers enabling it to breathe air, and unique external teeth.

Aquarium Setup: To accommodate the Bearded Worm Goby in captivity, a species setup is recommended, providing a minimum tank size of 70 liters with brackish water ranging from 1.005 to 1.015 sg. A soft, deep substrate is essential for burrowing, along with dim lighting to mimic its natural habitat. Other decorations are not deemed necessary, replicating its usual dark living conditions.

Behaviour: Due to its predatory nature, the Bearded Worm Goby should not be housed with smaller tank mates that could be perceived as food. Its distinct features and specialized requirements make it a fitting candidate for a species-exclusive tank setup where its behavior can be observed without disruption.

Feeding and Diet: In the wild, this goby feeds on crustaceans and small fish, displaying a carnivorous preference. In captivity, it is likely to accept a diet consisting of frozen and live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped prawn, resembling its natural feeding habits.

Reproduction & Dimorphism: The reproduction process of the Bearded Worm Goby remains largely unknown and is considered unlikely to occur in captivity. Details regarding sexual dimorphism are also undisclosed, adding to the mystery surrounding the species' breeding behavior and physical distinctions between genders.

Habitat and Distribution: Primarily inhabiting coastal estuarine waters, the Bearded Worm Goby resides in muddy burrows within the substrate. Its distribution spans across regions including India, Bangladesh, Thailand, China, Japan, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea, among others, where it thrives in diverse marine environments.