Blue Neon Goby (Elacatinus oceanops)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Max Size: 2 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 75-80°F

Comprehensive Guide to Blue Neon Goby (Elacatinus oceanops)

The Blue Neon Goby, scientifically known as Elacatinus oceanops, is a small and attractive saltwater fish commonly found in the Western Atlantic Ocean. It belongs to the Gobiidae family and is one of the most popular choices for reef aquariums. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you understand this fascinating species:

Habitat

The Blue Neon Goby is native to the Caribbean Sea, particularly the Gulf of Mexico and Florida. It is commonly found in coral reefs and rocky areas with plenty of hiding spots. These fish have a symbiotic relationship with cleaner shrimp, where they feed on parasites and dead skin of larger fish species.

Reef Safe

The Blue Neon Goby is considered reef safe as it poses no threat to corals or other invertebrates. In fact, it can help maintain a healthy reef ecosystem by cleaning parasites off of other fish.

Size

The Blue Neon Goby is a small fish, reaching a maximum size of around 2 inches. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller aquariums.

Temperament

This species is generally peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive fish species. However, it is territorial and may exhibit aggression towards other gobies or similar-looking fish.

Sexual Dimorphism

There is no significant difference in appearance between male and female Blue Neon Gobies.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Blue Neon Goby is around 2-3 years, but with proper care, it can live up to 5 years in captivity.

Diet in Aquariums

In the aquarium, the Blue Neon Goby is a carnivorous fish. It primarily feeds on small crustaceans, copepods, and amphipods. It is recommended to supplement their diet with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Aquascaping Recommendations

Provide plenty of hiding spots in the form of caves, live rock, or coral structures. This will help the Blue Neon Goby feel secure and reduce territorial aggression. Ensure the tank has a sandy substrate, as gobies like to sift through the sand to find food.

Captive Bred Availability

The Blue Neon Goby is available as captive-bred specimens, which are generally hardier and less stressed compared to wild-caught individuals. Captive-bred fish are also more environmentally sustainable, as they reduce the impact on wild populations.

Compatibility with Tankmates

The Blue Neon Goby is peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tankmates. Here are five specific tankmates that make a good choice:

1. Clownfish (e.g., Ocellaris Clownfish) – They coexist well and add color to the tank.
2. Firefish Goby – They share similar care requirements and have peaceful temperaments.
3. Cleaner Shrimp – They have a symbiotic relationship with Blue Neon Gobies, providing mutual benefits in terms of cleaning.
4. Royal Gramma – They occupy different levels of the tank and have compatible temperaments.
5. Peppermint Shrimp – They help control unwanted pests like Aiptasia anemones.

These tankmates are compatible as they have similar care requirements, temperaments, and occupy different niches within the tank.

Other Common Names

The Blue Neon Goby may also be known by other common names such as Neon Goby, Cleaner Goby, or Elacatinus Gobies.

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Popular Questions about Blue Neon Goby (Elacatinus oceanops)

1. 1. Q: Can Blue Neon Gobies be kept in a reef tank?

A: Yes, Blue Neon Gobies are considered reef safe and can be safely kept in a reef tank.

1. 1. Q: How large of a tank do Blue Neon Gobies require?

A: Blue Neon Gobies can be kept in a minimum tank size of 10 gallons, but larger tanks provide more space for their natural behavior.

1. 1. Q: Are Blue Neon Gobies aggressive towards other fish?

A: Blue Neon Gobies are generally peaceful, but they can exhibit territorial aggression towards other gobies or similar-looking fish.

1. 1. Q: What should the water parameters be for Blue Neon Gobies?

A: Blue Neon Gobies prefer a pH range of 8.1-8.4, salinity of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature between 75-80°F.

1. 1. Q: How long do Blue Neon Gobies typically live in aquariums?

A: The average lifespan of Blue Neon Gobies is around 2-3 years, but with proper care, they can live up to 5 years.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can successfully keep and enjoy the beauty of the Blue Neon Goby in your saltwater aquarium.