Saltwater Goby Care Guide

Saltwater gobies are a diverse group of small, bottom-dwelling reef fish, some of which form fascinating symbiotic partnerships with pistol shrimp.

Sand-Sifting Behavior

Many gobies constantly sift sand through their gills searching for food, which helps keep the sand bed aerated and clean, though it also means they need a fine, deep enough sand bed to exhibit this natural behavior.

Shrimp Partnerships

Certain goby species pair with pistol shrimp in a mutualistic relationship — the shrimp digs and maintains a shared burrow while the goby stands guard, alerting the nearly-blind shrimp to danger.

Reef Compatibility

Most saltwater gobies are reef-safe and peaceful toward tankmates, making them a great addition to a community reef tank.

Diet

Gobies generally do well on a diet of frozen mysis and brine shrimp, along with quality prepared marine foods.

Browse our saltwater goby selection, including the Dracula Goby.