More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 100 litres / 26.42 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.0cm / 3.94inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | Mostly peaceful but might be aggressive towards similar species |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Gorgeous prawn-goby, scientifically known as Amblyeleotris wheeleri, belongs to the Gobiidae family, specifically Amblyeleotris. These small fish are best known for their symbiotic relationship with Snapping Shrimps of the Alpheus ochrostriatus or Alpheus bellulus species. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from East Africa to Fiji, up to southern Japan and down to the Great Barrier Reef.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for aquariums with care, the Gorgeous prawn-goby can be kept in a tank of at least 100 liters, although larger tanks are recommended. They are known to be hardy and can be housed with caution due to their territorial behavior and potential aggression towards other similar species.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
With a hardy nature, these fish require feeding multiple times a day, especially when newly introduced to a tank. They thrive on small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. Their preferred water conditions include a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Reef Suitability
The Gorgeous prawn-goby is deemed reef-safe, making it a suitable addition to reef aquariums without posing a threat to coral or other invertebrates.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Gorgeous prawn-gobies, it is essential to provide a sandy substrate that allows them to burrow. Creating spaces with rocks for them to build holes is beneficial, ensuring stability. Adequate space should be provided to prevent stress, especially from other sand-digging species like Wrasses.
Behaviour
These fish exhibit mostly peaceful behavior but can display aggression towards similar species. They appreciate having their own territory and may become territorial, particularly when faced with encroaching fish.
Feeding and Diet
Their diet mainly consists of small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia. They require frequent feeding, especially initially, and will consume their natural food if available in the tank.
Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction
The Gorgeous prawn-goby can be bred in captivity, offering the opportunity for aquarists to acquire captive-bred specimens from local fish stores. Additionally, they often form a symbiotic relationship with Pistol shrimps of the Alpheus genus in captive settings.
Habitat and Distribution
In their natural habitat, these fish are found in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, The Red Sea, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific. They prefer residing in sandy areas with a symbiotic connection to Pistol shrimps for shelter and protection within their environment.