Clown Goby – Green (Gobiodon histrio)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• 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 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide – Clown Goby – Green (Gobiodon histrio)

The Clown Goby, or the Green Clown Goby or Gobiodon histrio, is famous for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about keeping this species in your aquarium.

Habitat

The Clown Goby is found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically in the reefs of the Indian Ocean and the Western Pacific Ocean. It prefers shallow lagoons and reef flats with plenty of hiding places, such as coral heads and crevices.

Reef Safe

The Clown Goby is considered reef-safe, making it an excellent choice for reef aquariums. It will not harm corals or other invertebrates, and it can even help control pests such as Aiptasia anemones.

Size

The Clown Goby is a small fish, reaching a maximum size of around 2 inches. Its small size makes it suitable for smaller aquariums and nano tanks.

Temperament

The Clown Goby is peaceful and generally non-aggressive towards other tankmates. However, it may become territorial and aggressive towards other gobies of the same species or similar-looking fish.

Sexual Dimorphism

There is no noticeable difference in appearance between male and female Clown Gobies.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Clown Goby is around 3-5 years, although with proper care, it can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums

The Clown Goby is a carnivorous fish that primarily feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. Aquariums can be fed a varied diet consisting of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods. It is also recommended to supplement its diet with high-quality pellet or flake foods designed for marine carnivores.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When aquascaping your aquarium for the Clown Goby, it is important to provide plenty of hiding places and shelter. This can be achieved by incorporating live rock structures, coral heads, and caves. The Clown Goby will appreciate a well-established reef environment with ample hiding spots.

Captive Bred Availability

The Clown Goby is available as captive-bred specimens in the aquarium trade. Captive-bred fish are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions than wild-caught specimens. Buying captive-bred fish also helps support sustainable aquaculture practices.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Clown Goby is generally compatible with many peaceful fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when keeping multiple Clown Gobies together, as they may exhibit territorial behavior towards each other. It is also essential to ensure that tankmates are not aggressive or large enough to pose a threat to the Clown Goby.

Here are five specific tankmates that are good choices for the Clown Goby:

1. Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica) – Peaceful and colorful, the Firefish Goby makes an excellent tankmate for the Clown Goby.
2. Yellow Watchman Goby (Cryptocentrus cinctus) – This goby species is known for its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp, creating an interesting dynamic in the aquarium.
3. Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) – Clownfish and Clown Gobies are peaceful species that can coexist in the same tank without issues.
4. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) – Cleaner shrimp can help keep the Clown Goby and other tankmates free from parasites.
5. Soft Corals (e.g., Zoanthids, Mushroom Corals) – The Clown Goby is reef-safe and can peacefully coexist with various soft coral species.

Other Common Names

The Clown Goby is also known by other common names such as the Green Clownfish Goby, Green Clown Goby, and Harlequin Goby.

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• Wide Selection: Reefs4Less.com offers a wide range of fish, corals, and invertebrates, including the Clown Goby.
• Quality Assurance: All livestock from Reefs4Less.com undergo strict quality control measures to ensure healthy and disease-free specimens.
• Expert Advice: The team at Reefs4Less.com consists of knowledgeable aquarium enthusiasts who can provide expert advice and support for your saltwater aquarium needs.
• Convenience: With online shopping, you can browse and purchase aquarium supplies and livestock from your home.
• Shipping: Reefs4Less.com offers reliable shipping options to ensure your livestock arrives safely and promptly.

Popular Questions and Answers

1. Q: What is the ideal tank size for a Clown Goby?

   A: The minimum tank size for a Clown Goby is 10 gallons, but a larger tank will provide more swimming space and allow for a greater variety of tankmates.

2. Q: Can Clown Gobies jump out of the aquarium?

   A: Clown Gobies have been known to jump out of uncovered aquariums. It is recommended to have a tight-fitting lid or mesh screen to prevent them from escaping.

3. Q: How often should I feed my Clown Goby?

   A: Clown Gobies should be fed in small amounts multiple times a day. Aim for 2-3 daily feedings to ensure they receive enough nutrition.

4. Q: Can Clown Gobies be kept in a reef tank with SPS corals?

   A: Yes, Clown Gobies are generally safe for SPS corals. However, caution should be exercised if the corals have long, delicate polyps that the Goby may nip at.

5. Q: Are Clown Gobies suitable for beginners?

   A: Yes, Clown Gobies are considered a good choice for beginners due to their hardiness, ease of care, and peaceful nature.