More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 100 litres / 26.42 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 12.0cm / 4.72inches |
| Reef Compatible | Always reef safe |
| Temperament | Docile |
| 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 Chinese zebra goby, also known as the Zebra hovergoby, Zebra dart-goby, or Zebra dartfish, belongs to the Microdesmidae family. These fish are recognized by their unique torpedo-like shape and require hiding places to retreat when feeling threatened, though they do not dig their own holes naturally.
Aquarium Suitability
With a temperament described as docile, the Chinese zebra goby is considered suitable for aquariums with care. They are best kept in pairs, with a male and a female, and can thrive in tanks as small as 100 liters. These fish are known to be shy and may hide at first, particularly when acclimating to a new tank environment.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
The Chinese zebra goby is considered average in terms of hardiness. They require frequent feedings, with a preference for small crustaceans like krill and zooplankton. When introducing this species to an aquarium, it is advisable to dim the lights initially to help them adjust peacefully.
Reef Suitability
This species is always considered reef safe, making them a suitable addition to reef aquariums. They require holes for hiding but cannot dig their own, so providing PVC pipes or other hiding spots is essential to their well-being.
Aquarium Setup
It is important to set up the aquarium for Chinese zebra gobies with plenty of hiding spots, such as 3/4" PVC pipes leading to larger chambers with multiple exits. Avoid open-topped tanks, as these fish are known to jump out. Maintaining stable water conditions with a pH ranging from 8.1 to 8.4 and a temperature between 22.2 to 25.6 degrees Celsius is crucial for their health.
Behaviour
Due to their shy and docile nature, Chinese zebra gobies may feel threatened by larger, more aggressive fish. Keeping them with smaller, peaceful fish can help reduce stress and ensure they receive an adequate amount of food.
Feeding and Diet
These fish require feeding several times a day, especially when first introduced to a new environment. Their diet consists of small crustaceans like krill and zooplankton, which can be supplemented with natural food sources found in the aquarium.
Dimorphism
For captive reproduction, maintaining a pair of Chinese zebra gobies in the aquarium is recommended to increase the chances of successful breeding. These fish can function well in large numbers or as a single specimen, though they thrive best when paired.
Habitat and Distribution
The Chinese zebra goby is native to the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea and islands in the western Indian Ocean to the Line and Marquesas Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, and southern Great Barrier Reef. They can be found in locations such as Australia, Japan, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific.