About Shrimp Goby

Shrimp Gobies are a group of goby species that form symbiotic relationships with pistol shrimp. This category includes various species like the Orange Spotted Goby, Randall's Shrimp Goby, and others. All share the same fascinating behavior of living in burrows maintained by pistol shrimp while acting as lookouts for danger. They are peaceful, interesting additions to reef tanks that add activity to the bottom of the aquarium. Sand substrate is essential, and they should be kept singly unless in very large tanks.

Care Guide

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

All shrimp gobies require similar setups with sand and burrowing areas.

Essential Setup:

  • 20+ gallons
  • Sand substrate: 2-3 inches minimum
  • Rubble or rocks for burrow structure
  • Cave areas
  • Moderate filtration
  • Temperature 72-78°F

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.5°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Carnivores with small mouths:

  • Frozen Mysis shrimp
  • Frozen brine shrimp
  • Marine pellets (small)
  • Copepods
  • Target feed near burrow entrance

The Shrimp Symbiosis

Universal among shrimp gobies:

  • Burrow sharing: With pistol shrimp
  • Shrimp works: Maintains, cleans burrow
  • Goby watches: Sentry at entrance
  • Communication: Antennae touching
  • Warning system: Goby alerts shrimp to danger

Recommended: Always try to pair with appropriate pistol shrimp.

Behavior & Compatibility

Peaceful burrow dwellers:

  • Peaceful: Perfect reef residents
  • Territorial: To other gobies
  • Stationary: Stay near burrow
  • Watchful: Always alert

Good Tank Mates:

  • All peaceful reef fish
  • Clownfish
  • Cardinalfish
  • Blennies

Avoid:

  • Other gobies
  • Aggressive fish
  • Yellow Watchman: Bright yellow, most common
  • Orange Spotted: White with orange spots
  • Randall’s: Blue stripes
  • Steinitz’s: Various patterns

Tips for Success

  • Sand substrate absolutely required
  • Pair with pistol shrimp for best behavior
  • Target feed
  • One goby per tank (usually)
  • Peaceful reef additions
  • Fascinating symbiosis to observe

Compatible Tank Mates

🐠 Clownfish
🐠 Cardinalfish
🐠 Blennies
🐠 Dartfish
🐠 Pistol Shrimp