Stonogobiops nematodes (Hi-Fin Banded Goby / Black-Ray Shrimp Goby)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 40L+ (preferably 75L+ for pairs or shrimp-goby partnerships)
• Adult size: ~6 cm (2.4 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous (frozen mysis/brine shrimp, marine pellets, finely chopped seafood)
• Be aware of: Forms a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp. Prone to jumping, so a secure lid is essential. May be territorial toward similar species in smaller tanks but is generally peaceful.
Hi-Fin Banded Goby (Stonogobiops nematodes) – A Striking and Symbiotic Reef Inhabitant
The Hi-Fin Banded Goby, also known as the Black-Ray Shrimp Goby, is a visually captivating and peaceful marine fish that thrives in reef aquariums. Renowned for its symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp, this species offers aquarists a unique opportunity to observe natural marine partnerships. Its distinctive appearance and beneficial behaviors make it a valuable addition to a well-maintained reef tank.
Appearance and Coloration
The Hi-Fin Banded Goby is easily identifiable by its:
• White to pale gray body adorned with four diagonal dark brown to black bands.
• Bright yellow head, adding a vibrant contrast to its body coloration.
• Elongated first dorsal fin, which is notably taller than the rest of the fin and often displayed prominently.
• Slender, elongated body, reaching up to 6 cm (2.4 inches) in length.
This goby’s striking coloration and distinctive fin make it a standout species in any reef aquarium.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
Native to the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific, including regions from the Seychelles to the Philippines and Bali, the Hi-Fin Banded Goby inhabits sandy or rubble substrates adjacent to coral reefs, where it:
• Forms symbiotic partnerships with pistol shrimp (Alpheus species), sharing burrows for mutual benefit.
• Acts as a sentinel, using its superior eyesight to watch for predators while the nearly blind shrimp maintains the burrow.
• Communicates with the shrimp through tactile signals, often maintaining physical contact to alert the shrimp of potential threats.
• Exhibits a shy and docile nature, often retreating to its burrow when threatened.
In captivity, replicating this environment allows the goby to exhibit its natural behaviors, enhancing its well-being and providing aquarists with fascinating observations.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the health and comfort of the Hi-Fin Banded Goby:
• Minimum tank size: 40 liters (10 gallons), though larger tanks (75L+) are recommended for pairs or shrimp-goby partnerships.
• Substrate: A fine to medium-grain sand bed with scattered rubble to facilitate burrow construction.
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock to create hiding spots and support natural behaviors.
• Water parameters:
• Temperature: 23–27°C (73–81°F)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: Specific gravity of 1.020–1.025
A secure lid is essential, as these gobies are known to jump, especially when startled.
Diet and Feeding
As carnivores, Hi-Fin Banded Gobies thrive on a varied diet:
• Primary foods: Frozen mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.
• Feeding frequency: At least twice daily to maintain optimal health.
While they may consume some detritus and microorganisms from sand sifting, regular feeding ensures they receive necessary nutrients.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
These gobies are generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial behavior towards similar species. Suitable tank mates include:
• Peaceful community fish: Clownfish, chromis, and small wrasses.
• Invertebrates: Reef-safe shrimp, snails, and crabs.
Avoid housing with:
• Aggressive or large predatory fish that may intimidate or prey upon them.
• Multiple gobies of the same species in smaller tanks, unless they are a mated pair.
Pairing them with a pistol shrimp can lead to fascinating symbiotic interactions, enriching the aquarium experience.
Symbiotic Relationship with Pistol Shrimp
In the wild, Hi-Fin Banded Gobies form a mutualistic relationship with pistol shrimp:
• The shrimp digs and maintains the burrow, providing shelter for both.
• The goby stands guard, alerting the shrimp to potential dangers through body movements.
• Both benefit from the partnership, with the shrimp gaining protection and the goby securing a safe home.
Replicating this relationship in the aquarium can be both beneficial and captivating for observers.
Health and Disease Considerations
Hi-Fin Banded Gobies are hardy but can be susceptible to common marine ailments:
• Marine Ich: Prevented through proper quarantine procedures and maintaining stable water conditions.
• Stress-related illnesses: Minimized by providing adequate hiding spots and avoiding aggressive tank mates.
Regular monitoring and maintaining high water quality are crucial for their well-being.
Lifespan and Long-Term Care
With proper care, these gobies can live up to 5 years in captivity. Ensuring a suitable environment, diet, and compatible tank