More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 100 litres / 26.42 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 6.0cm / 2.36inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | 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 Barenape Goby, also known as the Twospot Sandgoby, Double-spot Sand-goby, or Hawaiian Sand Goby, belongs to the Fusigobius family within the Gobiidae group. This species is native to the Indo-West Pacific region, spanning from East Africa to the Society Islands and as far north as the Ogasawara Islands. They are relatively small fish, with a maximum size of around 6.0cm.
Aquarium Suitability
Being part of the Gobiidae family, Barenape Gobies are generally well-suited for aquarium life. They are considered average in hardiness and can thrive in a home aquarium given proper care and suitable conditions. However, they may exhibit aggression towards similar species and are known to be quite docile and shy. These gobies are most content when provided with good hiding places within the tank, such as between live rocks, and prefer being the sole representative of their species in the aquarium.
Care and Hardiness
Barenape Gobies require a minimum tank size of 100 liters and thrive in water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C. They do best in environments with a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12. Frequent feeding, multiple times a day, is necessary for their well-being, especially when they are newly added to the aquarium. These gobies help maintain sandy substrates clean by filtering sand in search of food.
Reef Suitability
Considered always reef safe, Barenape Gobies are suitable for reef aquariums. Their habitat ranges include areas close to sandy substrates, making them a compatible addition to reef environments.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Barenape Gobies, it is essential to provide ample hiding spots among live rocks. These fish are known to be shy and prefer environments where they can easily retreat to. Maintaining a clean sandy substrate is crucial for their well-being. Additionally, ensuring a diverse diet that includes small crustaceans like krill and zooplankton such as cyclops and pods is essential for their health.
Behaviour
Barenape Gobies are relatively shy and docile, preferring to keep to themselves or hide among rocks. They may exhibit aggression towards members of the same species if housed together, therefore thriving better when kept as the sole representative in an aquarium.
Feeding and Diet
In captivity, Barenape Gobies feed on small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia, along with zooplankton such as cyclops and pods. Providing a varied diet is essential for their nutritional needs and overall health.
Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction
Information on dimorphism and captive reproduction of Barenape Gobies is not provided.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of Barenape Gobies spans the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, East Pacific, and Central/West Pacific regions. They are commonly found near sandy substrates where they can filter sand for food and seek shelter among rocks and coral formations.