Amblyeleotris guttata (Orange Spotted Shrimp Goby / Spotted Prawn Goby)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes, but may pose a threat to small, delicate ornamental shrimp.
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 40L+ (preferably 75L+ for pairs or groups)
• Adult size: ~11 cm (4.3 inches)
• Diet: Carnivorous (frozen mysis/brine shrimp, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood)
• Be aware of: Forms symbiotic relationships with pistol shrimp, sharing burrows and providing mutual protection. Prone to jumping, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. May be territorial toward similar species, especially in smaller tanks.
Orange Spotted Shrimp Goby (Amblyeleotris guttata) – A Symbiotic Sand-Dweller
The Orange Spotted Shrimp Goby, also known as the Spotted Prawn Goby, is a visually striking and beneficial addition to marine aquariums. Its mutualistic relationship with pistol shrimp offers aquarists a unique opportunity to observe natural symbiosis. With its peaceful demeanor and sand-sifting habits, this goby contributes to the overall health and aesthetics of a reef tank.
Appearance and Coloration
The Orange Spotted Shrimp Goby is easily recognizable by its:
• Translucent white body adorned with vibrant orange spots outlined in light brown.
• Transparent fins also speckled with orange spots, giving the appearance of floating dots.
• Slender, elongated body reaching up to 11 cm (4.3 inches) in length.
This coloration not only adds visual appeal but also provides camouflage against sandy substrates.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
Found in the Western Pacific, including areas like Indonesia and Australia, these gobies inhabit sandy bottoms near coral reefs, where they:
• Form symbiotic partnerships with pistol shrimp (Alpheus species), sharing burrows for mutual benefit.
• Act as lookouts, alerting the nearly blind shrimp to potential dangers while benefiting from the shrimp’s digging activities.
• Sift through sand to find food, helping to aerate the substrate and prevent detritus buildup.
In captivity, replicating this environment allows them to exhibit natural behaviors, enhancing their well-being.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the health and happiness of the Orange Spotted Shrimp Goby:
• Minimum tank size: 40 liters (10 gallons), though larger tanks (75L+) are recommended for pairs or community setups.
• Substrate: A fine sand bed mixed with loose coral rubble to facilitate burrow construction.
• Aquascape: Provide ample hiding spots using live rock to mimic their natural habitat.
• Water parameters:
• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: Specific gravity of 1.020–1.025
A tight-fitting lid is essential, as these gobies are known to jump, especially when startled.
Diet and Feeding
As carnivores, Orange Spotted Shrimp 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.
Health and Disease Considerations
Orange Spotted Shrimp 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 2 years in captivity. Ensuring a suitable environment, diet, and compatible tank mates will promote a healthy and active life.
Why Choose an Orange Spotted Shrimp Goby?
• Unique symbiotic behavior: Observing their partnership with pistol shrimp offers a glimpse into fascinating natural relationships.
• Beneficial sand sifting: Helps maintain a clean and aerated substrate.
• Striking appearance: Their vibrant spots add a splash of color to any marine setup.
• Peaceful temperament: Suitable for community reef tanks.
Important Considerations Before Purchase:
• Jumping tendency: Ensure the aquarium has a secure lid.