Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Maximum Size: 2 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: 4-Wheel Drive Goby (Signigobius biocellatus)

Habitat:

The 4-Wheel Drive Goby, also known as the Signigobius biocellatus, is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the waters of Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia. It inhabits sandy or rubble areas near coral reefs and lagoons.

Reef Safe:

The 4-Wheel Drive Goby is reef safe as it does not harm corals or other invertebrates. It can even form symbiotic relationships with certain species of pistol shrimp.

Size:

Adult 4-Wheel Drive Gobies can grow up to 2 inches in length, making them a relatively small species suitable for smaller saltwater aquariums.

Temperament:

These gobies are peaceful and non-aggressive towards other tank inhabitants. They spend most of their time sifting through sand or perching on rocks, displaying their unique behavior.

Sexual Dimorphism:

no significant visual differences exist between male and female 4-wheel Drive Gobies, making it difficult to determine their sex without close observation or breeding behavior.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the 4-wheel Drive Goby is around 2-3 years, but they can live longer with proper care and a suitable environment.

Diet in Aquariums:

These gobies are carnivorous and feed on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. In an aquarium, they can be fed a varied diet of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

Creating a sandy substrate with some rocky areas and caves mimics the natural habitat of the 4-wheel Drive Goby. Providing ample hiding places and open swimming areas will ensure their comfort and security.

Captive Bred Availability:

The 4-Wheel Drive Goby is occasionally available as captive-bred specimens, although they are more commonly collected from the wild. Captive-bred individuals are generally hardier and better acclimated to aquarium conditions.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The 4-Wheel Drive Goby is generally peaceful and can coexist with various tankmates. Here are five specific tankmates that make good choices:

1. Clownfish: Clownfish are compatible with gobies and can create an interesting dynamic in the aquarium.
2. Firefish: Firefish are peaceful and share similar water parameter requirements with the 4-wheel Drive Goby.
3. Yasha Hase Goby: This goby species can form a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp, creating an intriguing display in the tank.
4. Cleaner Shrimp: Cleaner shrimp can help groom and clean the 4-wheel Drive Goby, benefiting both species.
5. Soft Corals: The 4-Wheel Drive Goby is reef-safe and can be housed with various soft corals, adding color and diversity to the aquarium.

Common Names:

The 4-Wheel Drive Goby is also known by other common names such as Twinspot Goby, Signal Goby, and Crab-Eye Goby.

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Reefs4Less.com is a trusted online retailer for saltwater aquarium supplies and livestock. They offer a wide selection of high-quality fish, corals, and invertebrates, including the 4-wheel Drive Goby. Their products are carefully sourced and shipped with utmost care to ensure the health and well-being of the animals. Reefs4Less.com also provides excellent customer service and support to assist hobbyists in creating successful saltwater aquariums.

Popular Questions and Answers:

1. Q: What is the ideal tank size for the 4-Wheel Drive Goby?

   A: The minimum tank size for this goby species is 10 gallons, but larger tanks provide more swimming space and allow for better aquascaping options.

2. Q: Can the 4-wheel Drive Goby jump out of the aquarium?

   A: While they are not known for jumping, it is always recommended to have a secure lid or mesh covering to prevent any accidental escapes.

3. Q: Do 4-wheel Drive Gobies require a sand substrate?

   A: These gobies are sand sifters and prefer a sandy substrate where they can sift through and find food.

4. Q: Can the 4-wheel Drive Goby be kept in a reef tank with stony corals?

   A: While they are considered reef-safe, caution should be exercised with stony corals as the gobies may accidentally knock over small or fragile colonies.

5. Q: How can I encourage breeding behavior in the 4-wheel Drive Goby?

   A: Providing a suitable environment with ample hiding places and a varied diet can help stimulate breeding behavior in these gobies. However, breeding them in a home aquarium can be challenging.