CARING FOR SALTWATER GOBIES

Caring for Saltwater Gobies
The Goby family is one of the largest families of marine fishes, having over 2,000 unique species. These small fish are a great addition to the marine tank and they can be a pleasure to cultivate.
The goby is a species of marine fish belonging to the family Gobiidae which contains over 2,000 individual species. These fish are generally fairly small, some growing to a maximum size of 1 cm. Though most species in this family are small, some species can grow up to 1 foot in length, though it is rare. In the wild, these fish serve an important role acting as a prey species for commercial fish like cod, haddock and sea bass. Though gobies are not typically popular for human consumption, some species have become popular in the saltwater aquarium trade. If you are looking for a unique species to add to your marine tank, consider introducing a species of goby!
 
About Gobies
 
Most gobies exhibit long, thin bodies with fused pelvic fins which form a disc-shaped sucker. This appendage is similar to that possessed by remoras and it is used to adhere to rocks and corals – in the home aquarium it may also be used to adhere to the glass walls of the tank. There are six subfamilies of goby, each containing a number of unique species. The subfamily Amblyopinae includes eel and worm gobies, those species which tend to dwell in mud and exhibit pink, red or purple coloration. The subfamily Gobionellinae includes about 370 species that can mostly be found in estuarine habitats throughout the tropical and temperate regions of the world. Members of the Gobiinae subfamily are referred to as “true gobies” and this subfamily is the most widespread and diverse of the goby subfamilies, containing around 2,000 different species.
 
Though gobies vary in size and coloration, most tend to inhabit shallow marine environments such as tide pools, coral reefs and estuarine habitats such as salt marshes and mangrove swamps. Though some species have adapted to freshwater environments, most gobies are saltwater species. It is not uncommon for gobies to form symbiotic relationships with other marine species, particularly with burrowing shrimp. Some species, such as the neon goby, have also been known to act as cleaner fish, removing parasites from the skin of other species. In the aquarium trade, gobies are generally peaceful and make a great addition to the reef or fish-only aquarium. One thing to be aware of, however, is that these fish may jump out of the tank if it is not properly covered.
 
Tips for Goby Care
 
Tank size and parameters for gobies will vary according to the species. For the most part, however, gobies are fairly small and do not require a great deal of space. While most gobies are peaceful by nature, they may become territorial or aggressive toward others of their own species so if you plan to keep more than one goby in the same tank you may need to provide some extra space. Most gobies prefer shallow marine environments such as coral reefs, so it is wise to provide them with a tank environment that offers plenty of hiding places -- some gobies like to burrow so you may also want to provide sand or mud substrate to accommodate for this preference. Many gobies will accept a variety of commercial foods including flakes and pellets, but you should do some research to determine the nutritional needs of the species you plan to keep. Some species, like the shrimp goby, are carnivorous and require more protein than other species. For the most part, a varied diet of commercial, live food and frozen foods is sufficient.
 
Types of Gobies
 
Though there are over 2,000 recognized species of goby, not all of them are popular in the aquarium trade. Some of the most popular goby species among aquarium hobbyists include the bumblebee goby, the neon goby, the yellow clown goby and the shrimp goby. The bumblebee goby typically reaches a maximum size around 1 ? inches. These fish tend to inhabit the lower levels of the tank, preferring shallow water with a pH between 7.5 and 8.5 and a temperature between 75 and 86F. This species is named for its black and yellow striped coloration which is reminiscent of a bumblebee.
 
The neon goby is very small and slim, reaching an average length at maturity around 2 inches. These fish are easily recognized by the iridescent blue stripes which run lengthwise along their black bodies – they also have a bright white belly and may exhibit yellow striping instead of blue. This species is native to the western Atlantic and they make an excellent addition to the reef tank because they act as a cleaner fish, removing parasites from the bodies of larger fish. Neon gobies are generally peaceful by nature though they may become territorial with others of their own species.

The yellow clown goby is a small species, reaching a maximum length around 1 inches. These little fish are named for their bright yellow coloration and they are different from many other gobies in that they tend to live among corals rather than dwelling on the bottom of the tank. This species is easy to care for and is a great addition to the small reef tank – yellow clown gobies are hardy by nature and are a great species for beginners. Shrimp gobies are very colorful, having a white body with orange stripes and spots on the dorsal fin. These fish grow to a maximum size around 4 inches and are named for the symbiotic relationship they have been known to develop with shrimp in the wild. Shrimp gobies often share burrows with shrimp and they are generally peaceful toward other small species but may be aggressive with other bottom dwellers.

Marine gobies are a unique and attractive group of fishes – the perfect addition to any reef tank or fish-only tank. If you are looking for a new species to cultivate in your saltwater tank, consider the goby!

comments powered by Disqus
The Secret to Keeping Seahorses
The Secret to Keeping Seahorses
If you are looking for a unique inhabitant to add to your saltwater tank, consider the seahorse.
What Are Good Saltwater Fish For Beginners
What Are Good Saltwater Fish For Beginners
What makes a saltwater fish a good candidate for beginners?

MOST RECENT ARTICLES

Tips for Protecting Your Aquarium Against High Summer Temperatures
TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR AQUARIUM AGAINST HIGH SUMMER TEMPERATURES
During the summer months, it may become more of a challenge to keep your aquarium temperature stable.
The Best Barbs for a Large Home Aquarium
THE BEST BARBS FOR A LARGE HOME AQUARIUM
There are many different species of barbs but some of them are better than others for the larger home aquarium.
How to Solve Common Saltwater Tank Problems
HOW TO SOLVE COMMON SALTWATER TANK PROBLEMS
Cultivating a thriving saltwater tank can be a challenge but it is also incredibly rewarding.

Rate This Tank:

SALTWATER AQUARIUM ARTICLES

STOCKING THE TANK

The fish you choose to stock your tank is not a decision that should be made lightly. The articles in this category will help you understand the basics of fish compatibility and will provide you with other information you need to make an informed decision when stocking your tank.

Guide for Keeping Anemones in a Reef Tank
Guide for Keeping Anemones in a Reef Tank
Keeping anemones in a reef tank can be a challenge if you are not fully prepared.
Establishing up a Clean-up Crew in Your Saltwater Aquarium
Establishing up a Clean-up Crew in Your Saltwater Aquarium
Learn how to properly select and establish a clean-up crew in a saltwater or reef aquarium.
Sea Urchins in the Saltwater Tank
Sea Urchins in the Saltwater Tank
If you are looking for a unique invertebrate to add to your saltwater tank, consider the sea urchin.
Choosing the Right Butterflyfish for Your Reef Tank
Choosing the Right Butterflyfish for Your Reef Tank
Cultivating a reef tank is a unique challenge, not only because caring for corals is tricky but because it can be difficult to find reef-safe fish.
Stocking Salt Water Reef Tanks
Stocking Salt Water Reef Tanks
Learn how to select the right quantity and combination of fish for your saltwater aquarium.
Keeping and Breeding Mandarinfish
Keeping and Breeding Mandarinfish
Mandarinfish are a small, colorful species of saltwater aquarium fish.
Keeping Lionfish in the Home Aquarium
Keeping Lionfish in the Home Aquarium
The lionfish is a beautiful but deadly fish that makes a unique addition to the saltwater aquarium.
Hermit Crabs in Saltwater Tanks
Hermit Crabs in Saltwater Tanks
Hermit crabs do more than just add decoration to the saltwater tank -- they can also help to keep your tank clean.
Marine Shrimp for the Saltwater or Reef Tank
Marine Shrimp for the Saltwater or Reef Tank
Marine shrimp can be a useful addition to the saltwater tank - just be sure to pick the right species.
Keeping Moray Eels in the Marine Tank
Keeping Moray Eels in the Marine Tank
Moray eels can be a challenge to keep in the home aquarium but they are well worth it.
What's That? The Top 10 Strangest Looking Saltwater Fish
What's That? The Top 10 Strangest Looking Saltwater Fish
There are some odd=looking animals out there but these ten saltwater fish are among the strangest.
Commonly Available Reef-Safe Fish & Invertebrates
Commonly Available Reef-Safe Fish & Invertebrates
Learn about commonly available reef-safe fish and invertebrates that are good candidates for your reef aquarium.
Selecting and Caring for Saltwater Angelfish
Selecting and Caring for Saltwater Angelfish
Saltwater angelfish are some of the most colorful saltwater fish available.
Sea Cucumbers for Reef Tanks
Sea Cucumbers for Reef Tanks
Sea cucumbers are found throughout the ocean but they are a popular addition to saltwater reef tanks.
Clownfish in the Reef Aquarium
Clownfish in the Reef Aquarium
Clownfish are one of the most recognizable types of saltwater aquarium fish.
What Are Good Saltwater Fish For Beginners
What Are Good Saltwater Fish For Beginners
What makes a saltwater fish a good candidate for beginners?
Why Are Tangs Some of the Best Fish for Reef Tanks?
Why Are Tangs Some of the Best Fish for Reef Tanks?
Tangs are not just some of the most brightly colored species of tropical saltwater fish - they are also great additions to the reef tank.
Tips for Caring for Tangs Properly
Tips for Caring for Tangs Properly
Tangs are a group of fish that make excellent additions to the saltwater tank.
Tank-Raised Fish for Saltwater Aquariums
Tank-Raised Fish for Saltwater Aquariums
Stocking the saltwater aquarium can be an exciting challenge, especially when you have so many options to choose from.
The Benefits of Snails in the Saltwater Tank
The Benefits of Snails in the Saltwater Tank
While snails are often viewed as a nuisance in the freshwater tank, they can serve a valuable purpose in the saltwater aquarium.
Saltwater Species That Should Not be Kept by Beginners (and Sometimes not Even by the Experienced)
Saltwater Species That Should Not be Kept by Beginners (and Sometimes not Even by the Experienced)
Learn about saltwater animals that beginners (and sometimes experts) should avoid keeping.
Understanding the Coloration of Saltwater Fish
Understanding the Coloration of Saltwater Fish
Have you ever been dazzled by the bright colors and bold patterns of a school of saltwater fish?
The Secret to Keeping Seahorses
The Secret to Keeping Seahorses
If you are looking for a unique inhabitant to add to your saltwater tank, consider the seahorse.
The Benefits of Purchasing Saltwater Fish Online
The Benefits of Purchasing Saltwater Fish Online
If you are thinking about buying some new fish for your saltwater tank, think about purchasing them online!
Top Recommendations for Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish
Top Recommendations for Tank-Raised Saltwater Fish
When purchasing saltwater aquarium fish, you need to think about whether the fish are tank-raised or captive-bred.
Caring for Saltwater Gobies
Caring for Saltwater Gobies
The Goby family is one of the largest families of marine fishes, having over 2,000 unique species.
Saltwater Fish Article Database
Saltwater Fish Article Database
Articles on dozens of saltwater fish and appropriate care.
Read more articles (27) Aquarium Setup (11)
Types of Saltwater Tanks: Fish-Only, FOWLR and Reef Tanks
Types of Saltwater Tanks: Fish-Only, FOWLR and Reef Tanks
There are several different types of saltwater aquariums to choose from and each has its benefits and drawbacks.
Saltwater versus Freshwater Aquariums
Saltwater versus Freshwater Aquariums
Learn the arguments for choosing to set-up either a freshwater or saltwater aquarium.
Preparing Saltwater for your Marine Tank
Preparing Saltwater for your Marine Tank
Setting up and maintaining a marine tank can be a challenging experience and preparing your saltwater correctly is one of the most important tasks.
Handy Aquarium Accessories and Devices
Handy Aquarium Accessories and Devices
There are many accessories and handy devices which can make your life as an aquarium hobbyist easier.
Stocking a Brackish Aquarium
Stocking a Brackish Aquarium
A brackish aquarium is an exciting challenge for the aquarium hobbyist.
Tips for Keeping Nocturnal Fish in the Marine Aquarium
Tips for Keeping Nocturnal Fish in the Marine Aquarium
When the sun sets and the moon rises, the reef doesn't go silent - a whole new group of inhabitants comes out to play.
What Are the Biggest Saltwater Aquarium Mistakes and How Do You Fix Them?
What Are the Biggest Saltwater Aquarium Mistakes and How Do You Fix Them?
Cultivating a saltwater aquarium is a hobby full of exciting challenges, but sometimes those challenges can get the better of you.
Setting Up A Saltwater Tank System
Setting Up A Saltwater Tank System
What to Consider before Starting.
How to Start a Brackish Tank
How to Start a Brackish Tank
If you are looking for a new challenge as an aquarium hobbyist, try cultivating a brackish tank.
Saltwater Aquariums
Saltwater Aquariums
A brief introduction to saltwater aquariums.
Getting The Tank Ready
Getting The Tank Ready
Creating an ecosystem.
Aquarium Maintenance (18)
Salinity Requirements in a Saltwater Aquarium
Salinity Requirements in a Saltwater Aquarium
The key to maintaining a healthy saltwater aquarium is to strike the right balance in the salinity of your tank water.
Choosing the Correct Temperature for a Marine Aquarium
Choosing the Correct Temperature for a Marine Aquarium
One of the most important things you must to do ensure the health of your marine tank is to achieve and maintain the ideal temperature.
How to Deal with Marine Fungus in the Saltwater Aquarium
How to Deal with Marine Fungus in the Saltwater Aquarium
Fungal spores are present in all aquariums but, if you are not careful, they can become a problem in the saltwater tank.
How to Modify PH in a Saltwater Tank
How to Modify PH in a Saltwater Tank
The pH level in your saltwater tank is incredibly important for the health and vitality of your tank.
The Benefits of Algae in Saltwater Tanks
The Benefits of Algae in Saltwater Tanks
Many aquarium hobbyists assume that algae in the aquarium can only be bad.
How to Solve Common Saltwater Tank Problems
How to Solve Common Saltwater Tank Problems
Cultivating a thriving saltwater tank can be a challenge but it is also incredibly rewarding.
Why Do Fish Disappear from the Saltwater Tank?
Why Do Fish Disappear from the Saltwater Tank?
There is nothing as heart-breaking as losing a fish but it can be even more devastating when the fish simply disappears.
What You Need to Know About pH in Marine Aquariums
What You Need to Know About pH in Marine Aquariums
Maintaining proper water quality in your tank is essential but many aquarium hobbyists overlook one important aspect - pH.
Dealing with Hard Water in the Saltwater Tank
Dealing with Hard Water in the Saltwater Tank
When it comes to maintaining a healthy saltwater tank, water quality is extremely important.
The Dangers of High Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate
The Dangers of High Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate
Water quality is extremely important in maintaining a saltwater tank.
Maintenance Schedule for Reef Tanks
Maintenance Schedule for Reef Tanks
Maintaining a reef tank can be a challenge but as long as you keep up with your routine maintenance tasks, you should have no problem.
Getting Rid of Aiptasia in Your Reef Aquarium
Getting Rid of Aiptasia in Your Reef Aquarium
Learn about aiptasia in the reef aquarium and how to get rid of it.
How to Remove a Mantis Shrimp From a Saltwater Aquarium
How to Remove a Mantis Shrimp From a Saltwater Aquarium
In this article you will receive an overview of what mantis shrimp are, how they can impact your saltwater aquarium, and how to remove them properly.
Why is Water Flow So Important in a Reef Tank?
Why is Water Flow So Important in a Reef Tank?
Cultivating a thriving reef tank can be a challenge with all of the requirements you must meet.
Saltwater and Reef Tank Cycling
Saltwater and Reef Tank Cycling
Tips on cycling your fishtank.
Maintaining Your Saltwater Tank
Maintaining Your Saltwater Tank
Tips for maintaining a saltwater fish tank.
Kalkwasser for the Marine Tank
Kalkwasser for the Marine Tank
Maintaining proper calcium levels is an important part of keeping your marine tank healthy.
What NOT to do with a Saltwater Tank
What NOT to do with a Saltwater Tank
Learn what "not" to do when starting out with your saltwater fish or reef tank.
Reef Tanks (13)
Beginner Coral Species: Low-Light Corals
Beginner Coral Species: Low-Light Corals
Keeping corals in a saltwater aquarium can be challenging but these low-light species are perfect for beginners.
Types of Coral for Reef Tanks
Types of Coral for Reef Tanks
Stocking a reef tank can be a challenge because there are so many different types of coral to choose from.
The Top 5 Most Colorful Corals for a Saltwater Tank
The Top 5 Most Colorful Corals for a Saltwater Tank
With more than 2,000 different species of coral out there, how do you choose the right option for your tank?
Reef Aquariums
Reef Aquariums
An overview of the reef aquarium along with a short history.
Tips for Using Rockwork in Saltwater and Reef Aquariums
Tips for Using Rockwork in Saltwater and Reef Aquariums
Building a beautiful saltwater tank landscape out of rock is a challenge but with some helpful tips you can make it work.
Common Myths and Problems Regarding Nano Reef Tanks
Common Myths and Problems Regarding Nano Reef Tanks
Cultivating a nano reef tank can be an exciting challenge.
How to Care for Marine Blue Sponges
How to Care for Marine Blue Sponges
The blue sponge makes a great addition to the marine tank.
Recommended Species for Nano Tanks
Recommended Species for Nano Tanks
Cultivating a nano tank can be an exciting challenge but unless you choose the right fish for your tank, you may be in trouble.
Reef Aquariums: Is Bigger Really Better?
Reef Aquariums: Is Bigger Really Better?
Cultivating a reef tank is an exciting but challenging task - learn more about choosing the right size for your reef tank.
Bristle Worms in the Marine Tank
Bristle Worms in the Marine Tank
Dealing with pests is an inescapable part of cultivating a marine tank.
Feeding Corals -  Keeping Your Saltwater Invertebrates Healthy
Feeding Corals - Keeping Your Saltwater Invertebrates Healthy
If you want to keep your saltwater or reef tank healthy, you need to learn the basics of feeding corals.
What is a Nano Reef?
What is a Nano Reef?
Whether you are looking for a new challenge as a saltwater aquarium enthusiast or you are trying your hand at a reef tank for the first time, a nano reef is a great way to go.
Set-up Guide for a Reef Tank
Set-up Guide for a Reef Tank
If you have ever considered starting a reef tank, read this setup guide to make sure you start your reef tank off right.
Aquarium Lighting (3)
UV Sterilizers for Reef Aquariums
UV Sterilizers for Reef Aquariums
A UV sterilizer is a valuable piece of equipment to add to your reef tank or fish-only saltwater aquarium.
Tips for Lighting a Reef Tank
Tips for Lighting a Reef Tank
When it comes to maintaining a thriving reef tank the type of lighting system you choose is incredibly important.
Heating and Filtration (8)
Saltwater Aquarium Filtration
Saltwater Aquarium Filtration
The type of filtration system you choose for your saltwater aquarium is incredibly important.
Foam Build-up on Saltwater Tank Surface
Foam Build-up on Saltwater Tank Surface
Foam build-up is a common problem in the saltwater tank.
Reverse Osmosis for the Saltwater Tank
Reverse Osmosis for the Saltwater Tank
If you want to keep a healthy and thriving saltwater tank, you need to start with high-quality water.
How to Keep Your Saltwater Aquarium from Overheating
How to Keep Your Saltwater Aquarium from Overheating
Learn how to keep your saltwater aquarium from overheating.
Common Problems with Heating in Saltwater Tanks
Common Problems with Heating in Saltwater Tanks
Maintaining a stable water temperature in your saltwater tank is important for the health and well-being of your fish.
Wavemakers for Saltwater Tanks
Wavemakers for Saltwater Tanks
If you want to keep your saltwater tank healthy, you need to consider the ideal level of water flow.
What is Protein Skimming?
What is Protein Skimming?
Learn about protein skimming, why it's important, and which aquarists should use it.
What is an Aquarium Sump?
What is an Aquarium Sump?
If you are new to the aquarium hobby you may not be familiar with the term "sump".
Nutrition and Feeding (6)
How to Raise Brine Shrimp
How to Raise Brine Shrimp
Brine shrimp are an excellent source of protein for aquarium fish and they are very easy to raise at home.
Tips for Feeding Saltwater Aquarium Fish
Tips for Feeding Saltwater Aquarium Fish
What you feed your fish will determine whether or not their reach their full potential.
Live Foods for Marine Fish
Live Foods for Marine Fish
Feeding your fish a proper diet is the key to keeping them healthy.
Nutritional Needs of Saltwater Aquarium Fish
Nutritional Needs of Saltwater Aquarium Fish
In order to keep your saltwater aquarium fish healthy you need to understand and meet their basic nutritional needs.
Tips for Getting Fussy Fish to Eat
Tips for Getting Fussy Fish to Eat
Feeding saltwater aquarium fish can be tricky, especially when your fish refuse to eat.
Top Commercial Foods for Saltwater Fish
Top Commercial Foods for Saltwater Fish
What you feed your saltwater aquarium fish will play a major role in determining their health and vitality.
Saltwater Fish Diseases (5)
How to Deal with Marine Ich in the Saltwater Aquarium
How to Deal with Marine Ich in the Saltwater Aquarium
Marine Ich is a common disease affecting saltwater aquarium fish and, unless you know how to deal with it, it can spread quickly throughout your tank.
Common Saltwater Aquarium Fish Diseases
Common Saltwater Aquarium Fish Diseases
No matter how hard you try, you cannot completely protect your fish from falling ill.
Good Medications to Keep on Hand
Good Medications to Keep on Hand
In the event that your fish become ill it is important that you take action to begin a treatment regimen as soon as possible.
How to Treat Saltwater Aquarium Parasites with Freshwater
How to Treat Saltwater Aquarium Parasites with Freshwater
Parasites can quickly become a major problem in the saltwater aquarium if you do not address the issue immediately.
How to Prevent Saltwater Fish Diseases
How to Prevent Saltwater Fish Diseases
There is nothing quite so heartbreaking as losing one of your fish to disease.
Aquarium Decorations (3)
Creating Your Own Live Rock for Saltwater Tanks
Creating Your Own Live Rock for Saltwater Tanks
Live rock is the foundation for any thriving saltwater tank and it is the base for saltwater aquarium decor.
How to Cure Your Live Rock Before Placing it in Your Aquarium
How to Cure Your Live Rock Before Placing it in Your Aquarium
Learn how to properly cure live rock before placing it in your tank.

READ AQUARIUM ARTICLES