Barbershop Shrimpgoby (Stonogobiops nematodes)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby (Stonogobiops nematodes) is a widespread species in saltwater aquariums due to its vibrant colors and interesting behavior. This comprehensive guide will give you all the information you need to successfully care for this species in your aquarium.

Habitat:

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby is found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in the waters of the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. It inhabits sandy or rubble areas near coral reefs, often forming symbiotic relationships with pistol shrimp.

Reef Safe:

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby is reef-safe as it does not harm corals or other invertebrates. It forms a mutualistic relationship with pistol shrimp, where the shrimp digs and maintains a burrow for both species.

Size:

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby can reach a maximum size of about 3 inches. It has a slender body with beautiful coloration, including a vibrant blue stripe running along its dorsal fin.

Temperament:

This species is known for its peaceful temperament, making it suitable for community aquariums. It is not aggressive towards other fish or invertebrates and can be kept with various tankmates.

Sexual Dimorphism:

There are no significant differences in appearance between males and females of the Barbershop Shrimpgoby species.

Lifespan:

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby can live in captivity for up to 5 years with proper care.

Diet in Aquariums:

In the aquarium, the Barbershop Shrimpgoby is a carnivorous species. It primarily feeds on small crustaceans, such as copepods and amphipods. It is recommended to provide a varied diet consisting of frozen or live foods, including brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

To recreate the natural habitat of the Barbershop Shrimpgoby, it is best to provide a sandy substrate with some rubble or live rock for hiding places. The presence of a pistol shrimp is beneficial, as it will create burrows for both species to inhabit. Additionally, the aquarium should have moderate water flow and be well-lit to support the growth of beneficial microorganisms.

Captive Bred Availability:

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby is occasionally available as captive-bred specimens but is more commonly collected from the wild. It is always recommended to choose captive-bred individuals when possible, as they tend to be hardier and less stressed than wild-caught specimens.

Compatibility with Tankmates:

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby is generally compatible with many tankmates, including peaceful reef fish, small invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when selecting tankmates to ensure they are not aggressive or predatory towards the shrimpgoby. Some suitable tankmates for the Barbershop Shrimpgoby include:

1. Clownfish: Clownfish are peaceful and can form a symbiotic relationship with the shrimpgoby.
2. Firefish: Firefish are peaceful and add vibrant colors to the aquarium.
3. Gobies: Various goby species, such as the Yellow Watchman Goby, can coexist peacefully with the Barbershop Shrimpgoby.
4. Dwarf Angelfish: Dwarf angelfish are generally compatible with the shrimpgoby, but caution should be exercised as some individuals may nip at corals.
5. Cleaner Shrimp: Cleaner shrimp can form a beneficial relationship with the shrimpgoby, providing cleaning services.

These tankmates are good choices because they have similar care requirements and are unlikely to pose a threat to the Barbershop Shrimpgoby.

Other Common Names:

The Barbershop Shrimpgoby is also commonly known as the Yasha Shrimp Goby or the Yasha Haze Goby.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

1. Can the Barbershop Shrimpgoby be kept in a small tank?

Yes, the Barbershop Shrimpgoby can be kept in a small tank, but a minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended to provide enough swimming space and accommodate a pistol shrimp if desired.

2. How often should I feed the Barbershop Shrimpgoby?

Feeding the Barbershop Shrimpgoby small amounts of food multiple times a day is recommended. This species has a high metabolism and benefits from regular feedings to maintain optimal health.

3. Can the Barbershop Shrimpgoby jump out of the aquarium?

While the Barbershop Shrimpgoby is not known for being a jumper, it is always advisable to have a secure lid or mesh covering on the aquarium to prevent accidental escapes.

4. Can the Barbershop Shrimpgoby be kept with aggressive fish?

Keeping the Barbershop Shrimpgoby with aggressive or predatory fish is generally not recommended, as they may threaten the shrimpgoby. It is best to choose tankmates with peaceful temperaments.

5. How can I encourage the symbiotic relationship between the Barbershop Shrimpgoby and a pistol shrimp?

To encourage the symbiotic relationship, providing suitable hiding places and a sandy substrate for the pistol shrimp to create caves is essential. Additionally, introducing both species to the aquarium simultaneously can increase their likelihood of forming a bond.