More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 500 litres / 132.09 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 18.0cm / 7.09inches |
| Reef Compatible | Reef safe with caution |
| 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 Blueband goby, scientifically known as Valenciennea strigata, belongs to the Gobiidae family and is a small fish commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, spanning from East Africa to Australia. This species can grow up to 18.0cm in size and is recognized by its striking blue bands along its body.
Aquarium Suitability:Suitability for the Blueband goby requires experience, preparation, and extra care due to its demanding nature. It is crucial to provide hiding spots, a well-established aquarium with sufficient micro life, and ensure it is introduced in pairs for optimal thriving conditions.
Demands:The Blueband goby necessitates frequent feeding, requiring four or more feedings daily. Additionally, it is known for rearranging sand in the aquarium, which can potentially lead to covering corals with sand.
Care and Hardiness:Regarding hardiness, this species is considered average and may initially display shy behavior when introduced to a new aquarium. They are mostly peaceful but can exhibit aggression towards similar species once acclimatized.
Reef Suitability:Reef compatibility of the Blueband goby is classified as reef-safe with caution, as they may cover corals with sand while foraging. Therefore, careful monitoring is advised in reef setups.
Aquarium Setup:Aquarium setup for the Blueband goby should include a minimum tank size of 500 liters, good hiding places like live rocks, and stable rock structures that can withstand sand rearrangements. Maintaining a well-established tank with an abundance of copepods and amphipods is crucial for their sustenance.
Behaviour:The Blueband goby displays mostly peaceful behavior but may exhibit aggression towards similar species. They are known to be active sand filter feeders and can jump out of open aquariums, necessitating secure tank lids.
Feeding and Diet:Their diet primarily consists of small crustaceans such as krill and mysis, as well as zooplankton like Cyclops and pods. Providing a varied diet will help ensure their nutritional needs are met.
Habitat and Distribution:In their natural habitat, the Blueband goby inhabits sandy substrates in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, the Red Sea, Indonesia, and various parts of the Pacific Ocean. Their distribution ranges from East Africa to the Tuamoto Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, and south to Sydney, Australia.