More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 300 litres / 79.25 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 15.0cm / 5.91inches |
| 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 Amblygobius phalaena, commonly known as the Sleeper Banded Goby or White-spotted goby, belongs to the Gobiidae family. These fish are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, spanning from the Philippines to southern Australia, exhibiting a hardy nature with a maximum size of 15.0cm.
Aquarium Suitability
With a well-run aquarium, these gobies can thrive, granted that there is sufficient algae for grazing and a substrate that allows for burrowing. Despite being mostly peaceful, they may display aggression towards similar species, emphasizing the need for careful management in a reef setting.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
The Sleeper Banded Goby is considered hardy and generally easy to care for in captivity. They require a tank of at least 300 liters with stable water conditions including a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
Reef Suitability
Reef enthusiasts will find this species appealing as they are deemed reef-safe, making them a suitable addition to coral-filled marine setups. However, caution is advised due to their tendency to rearrange rocks and sand, potentially causing disturbance to the coral.
Aquarium Setup
To cater to the natural behavior of the Sleeper Banded Goby, a sandy substrate with coral pieces and shells is recommended to allow for burrowing. Rock formations should be securely positioned to prevent toppling and provide spaces for the fish to create burrows.
Behaviour
These gobies can often be found in pairs, with a propensity for rearranging the tank environment. They generally show peaceful behavior but may exhibit territorial aggression towards similar species, necessitating adequate space in the aquarium.
Feeding and Diet
Their diet consists of microalgae, small crustaceans like krill and mysis, and zooplankton such as cyclops and pods. Ensuring a well-established aquarium with ample algae for grazing is essential; otherwise, supplementary feeding rich in algae is advised.
Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction
The Sleeper Banded Goby may exhibit multiple color variations, posing challenges in species identification. Additionally, they have been known to feed on flatworms, with individual variations in diet preferences possibly impacting their overall health.
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Pacific Ocean, these gobies are distributed from the Philippines to the Society Islands, thriving in regions such as the Ryukyu Islands, southern Australia, and Micronesia. They prefer habitats with sandy substrates and rocky structures to accommodate their burrowing behavior.