More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 litres / 132.09 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 18.0cm / 7.09inches |
| 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 Butterfly goby, also known as the Tailspot goby, belongs to the Gobiidae family, specifically Amblygobius. This species is native to the Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to South Africa, including various islands in the Indian Ocean, Indonesia, Australia, and the South Pacific.
Aquarium Suitability:
Considered suitable for aquariums, the Butterfly goby is generally small, with an average hardiness level. It is essential to note that this species has a tendency to jump out of open aquaria, requiring vigilance from aquarists. It is compatible with a well-established tank that provides enough space and hiding spots.
Demands:
The Butterfly goby is known to thrive in aquariums with a minimum tank size of 500 liters. They prefer a substrate that allows them to burrow, with a preference for sand, coral pieces, and shells for creating holes. These fish require a tank with stable rocks and a secure environment to prevent toppling and stress.
Care and Hardiness:
Maintaining a well-run aquarium with ample algae for grazing is crucial for the Butterfly goby's care. Regular feeding with algae-rich foods and supplements such as Spirulina is recommended. This species tends to rearrange rocks and sift through sand, potentially burying corals with sand particles.
Reef Suitability:
The Butterfly goby is considered reef-safe, making it suitable for reef aquariums. It displays mostly peaceful behavior but may show aggression towards similar species.
Aquarium Setup:
Setting up an aquarium for the Butterfly goby involves providing a sandy substrate with rocks and caves for burrowing. Secure rocks to prevent collapses, as these fish can rearrange them. Maintaining a tank with ample algae for grazing and supplementing their diet accordingly is essential.
Behaviour:
This species is known to live in pairs, consisting of a male and female. Butterfly gobies are generally peaceful but can exhibit aggression towards members of the same species. They have a habit of rearranging rocks and sand in their environment.
Feeding and Diet:
The recommended diet for Butterfly gobies includes microalgae like Spirulina, small crustaceans such as krill and mysis, and zooplankton like pods and cyclops. Ensuring that the fish have access to a varied diet rich in essential nutrients is important for their health.
Habitat and Distribution:
In their natural habitat, Butterfly gobies inhabit the sandy bottoms of the Indo-West Pacific region, including the Red Sea, Australia, Japan, and various islands in the area. They are commonly found in well-established aquariums with suitable conditions for burrowing and grazing.