More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 50 litres / 13.21 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 5.0cm / 1.97inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | Docile 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 Yellownose goby, scientifically known as Elacatinus randalli, is a small fish belonging to the Gobiidae family. Originating from the Western Central Atlantic, specifically from regions ranging from Puerto Rico and the Lesser Antilles to Curaçao and Venezuela, this species can reach sizes of up to 5.0cm.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for most aquarium setups, the Yellownose goby is a hardy species, making it relatively easy to care for in a home aquarium. However, due to its small size, it is important to note that this species may be at risk of getting lost in overflows within the tank.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
The Yellownose goby is generally docile but may exhibit aggression towards similar species. It is crucial to handle this fish delicately due to its shy nature, especially when housed with more aggressive tank mates. This species requires frequent feedings, ideally several times a day, especially when first introduced to a new environment. Additionally, the Yellownose goby can live as a pair and has the ability to remove parasites from other fish, contributing to the overall health of the aquarium ecosystem.
Reef Suitability
This species is known to be always reef-safe, making it a suitable addition to reef tank setups without posing a threat to coral or other invertebrates.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up the aquarium for the Yellownose goby, ensure a minimum tank size of 50 liters and maintain water conditions within the range of 8-12 KH, 8.1-8.4 pH, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature between 22.2-25.6°C. Target feeding may be necessary to ensure this species receives an adequate diet of small crustaceans and zooplankton.
Behaviour
Known to be very sensitive during transportation and acclimatization, the Yellownose goby tends to be timid and might hide in the presence of more boisterous tank mates. Constant cleaning activities to remove parasites can stress the fish, so it is essential to maintain a balanced ecosystem within the aquarium.
Feeding and Diet
In captivity, the Yellownose goby thrives on a diet consisting of small crustaceans such as krill, mysis, and artemia, as well as zooplankton like Cyclops and pods. Target feeding may be required to ensure this species obtains enough food to maintain optimal health.
Habitat and Distribution
Naturally found in the Mexican Gulf and wider West Atlantic, the Yellownose goby inhabits reefs where it can seek shelter in crevices and amongst coral branches. Its presence contributes to the overall balance of the marine ecosystem by assisting in parasite removal from other fish species.