Saltwater Aquarium Guide: Engineer Goby (Pholidichthys leucotaenia)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons
• Maximum Size: Up to 12 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Engineer Goby (Pholidichthys leucotaenia)

Habitat:

The Engineer Goby is native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically found in the Red Sea, Maldives, and the Great Barrier Reef. It inhabits sandy or gravel substrates near coral reefs or rocky areas.

Reef Safe:

The Engineer Goby is reef safe as it does not harm corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with small shrimps or other tiny crustaceans, as they may be seen as potential prey.

Size:

The Engineer Goby can grow up to 12 inches long.

Temperament:

This species is generally peaceful and can be kept with various tankmates. However, it may become territorial towards other gobies or similar-shaped fish.

Sexual Dimorphism:

There are no distinct visual differences between males and females of the Engineer Goby species.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the Engineer Goby in captivity is around 5-8 years, but with proper care, it can potentially live longer.

Diet in Aquariums:

The Engineer Goby is a carnivorous species that primarily feeds on small invertebrates, such as worms, copepods, and amphipods. In an aquarium, they can be fed a varied diet consisting of frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

Since the Engineer Goby is a burrowing species, it requires a sandy substrate in the aquarium. Providing plenty of hiding spots with rocks or coral rubble is also beneficial. Additionally, creating a moderate water flow in the tank mimics its natural habitat.

Captive Bred Availability:

The Engineer Goby is not commonly available as a captive-bred species. Most specimens in the aquarium trade are wild-caught.

Compatibility with Tankmates:

The Engineer Goby is generally compatible with various tankmates, including peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, it should not be kept with aggressive or predatory species that may harm or outcompete it. Some suitable tankmates for the Engineer Goby include:

1. Clownfish: Clownfish are peaceful and can form a symbiotic relationship with the Engineer Goby.
2. Firefish: Firefish are peaceful and have a similar size and temperament to the Engineer Goby.
3. Royal Dottyback: Royal Dottybacks are peaceful and add vibrant color to the aquarium.
4. Cleaner Shrimp: Cleaner Shrimp can coexist with Engineer Goby and provide cleaning services.
5. Soft Corals: Many soft corals are compatible with the Engineer Goby and can create a beautiful reef environment.

Note: Always research the specific needs and compatibility of any potential tankmates before adding them to your aquarium.

Other Common Names:

The Engineer Goby is also known by other common names, including Convict Goby, Convict Worm Goby, and Engineer Goby.

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Popular Questions about the Engineer Goby (Pholidichthys leucotaenia)

1. What is the ideal tank size for an Engineer Goby?

Engineer Goby’s minimum recommended tank size is 50 gallons. Providing a larger tank with ample swimming space is beneficial.

2. Can Engineer Gobies jump out of the aquarium?

While Engineer Gobies are not known to be frequent jumpers, it’s always a good idea to have a secure lid or mesh covering on the aquarium to prevent accidental escapes.

3. Do Engineer Gobies require a sand substrate?

Engineer Gobies are burrowing species requiring a sandy substrate in the aquarium to exhibit their natural behavior.

4. Can Engineer Gobies be kept in a reef tank?

Yes, Engineer Gobies are considered reef-safe and can be kept in a reef tank without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates.

5. How often should an Engineer Goby be fed?

An Engineer Goby should be fed once or twice a day, offering a varied diet of frozen or live foods appropriate for its carnivorous nature.