Overview
- Found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically inhabiting sandy bottoms and shallow lagoons.
- Recognized by its intricate patterns of spots and lines, giving it a finely decorated appearance.
- Often seen resting on the substrate, blending seamlessly with its surroundings.
- Well-suited for peaceful reef aquariums with fine sand and rock structures.
Feeding
- Primarily feeds on small crustaceans, worms, and microscopic organisms in the sand.
- Readily accepts frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
- Supplementing with sinking pellets and live foods ensures proper nutrition.
- Prefers to sift through the sand to find food, making a naturalistic substrate beneficial.
Habitat
- Prefers sandy or silty environments where it can burrow for shelter.
- Requires an aquarium setup with soft substrate and scattered rocks for hiding.
- Thrives in moderate water flow, which helps distribute food particles naturally.
- Best housed in a stable environment with minimal aggressive tank mates.
Fish Care
- Optimal water temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C).
- pH level: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.023-1.026.
- Maintaining high water quality is essential for long-term health.
- Regular substrate cleaning helps prevent detritus buildup in the tank.
Compatibility
- Peaceful and non-aggressive, making it ideal for community reef tanks.
- Best kept with similarly sized, passive fish to avoid stress.
- Should not be housed with aggressive or territorial species.
- Pairs well with other sand-dwelling gobies and burrowers.
Aquarium Behavior
- Spends most of its time on or near the substrate, scanning for food.
- Can be shy initially but becomes more confident in a well-structured environment.
- Frequently burrows or hides in the sand when feeling threatened.
- Active in the daytime, often seen sifting sand through its gills while feeding.