More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 200 litres / 52.83 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 10.0cm / 3.94inches |
| 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 Gold-specs Jawfish, scientifically known as Opistognathus randalli, belongs to the Opistognathidae family and is native to the Western Pacific, specifically found in Indonesia, eastern Borneo, and the Philippines. This species typically grows up to 10.0cm in size and is characterized by its shy and docile nature, interesting personality, and the unique behavior of the male incubating eggs in its mouth.
Aquarium Suitability
The Gold-specs Jawfish is considered suitable for aquariums with care, as they are hardy and relatively easy to maintain under the right conditions. However, caution should be exercised when housing them with more aggressive fish due to their timid demeanor. They are known to be very sensitive to their surroundings and might exhibit gasping behavior if distressed.
Demands, Care, and Hardiness
Due to their natural behavior of burrowing in small holes, Gold-specs Jawfish require a deep sand substrate in the aquarium. It is essential to provide them with a substrate that allows them to dig, such as sand, coral pieces, and shells. Ensuring a spacious environment without other animals that dig in the sand can help reduce stress on this species. They are hardy fish that thrive best when kept on their own and are known to jump out of open aquariums.
Reef Suitability
Labeled as always reef safe, the Gold-specs Jawfish is compatible with reef setups and can coexist in reef aquariums without posing a threat to the coral or other reef inhabitants.
Aquarium Setup
When setting up an aquarium for Gold-specs Jawfish, it is crucial to provide a substrate that enables burrowing, rocks arranged securely for hole creation, and ample space for their natural behavior. Creating hiding spots and ensuring a hole length of at least 1.5 inches longer than their body length can help mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress.
Behaviour
These jawfish are known for their shy and docile temperament but may exhibit aggression towards similar species. They are characterized by intriguing personalities and engaging behaviors, making them a fascinating addition to an aquarium setting.
Feeding and Diet
Gold-specs Jawfish have a recommended diet of small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia, as well as zooplankton such as cyclops and pods. Providing a varied diet rich in these components can help maintain their health and vitality in captivity.
Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction
In terms of dimorphism, male Gold-specs Jawfish exhibit the unique behavior of mouth-brooding, where they carry and incubate fertilized eggs in their mouth until hatching. This reproductive behavior adds an interesting aspect to their care in captivity.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of the Gold-specs Jawfish includes regions of Indonesia, the Central/West Pacific, eastern Borneo, and the Philippines. They are commonly found in small holes within sandy substrates, making it crucial to replicate such conditions in their aquarium environment to ensure their well-being and natural behavior.