Aquarium Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons (190 litres)
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Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025
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Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
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Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: < 10 ppm
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Aquascape: Provide a deep sandy substrate (3–5 inches) for burrowing and sand-sifting, along with live rock for shelter and open swimming areas
Chalk Gobies thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water parameters and sufficient sand for digging and sifting.
Diet and Feeding
Chalk Gobies are carnivorous sand sifters and require a diet rich in protein:
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Frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood
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High-quality sinking pellets formulated for carnivorous marine fish
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Feed 2–3 times daily, sprinkling food over the substrate to encourage natural foraging behavior
Regular feeding ensures proper nutrition and supports natural sand-sifting activity.
Temperament and Compatibility
Chalk Gobies are peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish that coexist well with other non-aggressive species. They may form small pairs and are territorial toward other gobies of the same species only in confined spaces.
Tankmate Recommendations:
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Suitable: Clownfish, small tangs, blennies, firefish, and other peaceful reef fish
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Avoid: Large predatory or aggressive fish
Ample sand substrate and hiding spots help reduce stress and support natural behaviors.
Reef Compatibility
✅ Reef Safe
Chalk Gobies are reef safe, posing no threat to corals or sessile invertebrates. Their sand-sifting behavior can even help maintain a clean substrate in reef aquariums.
Additional Information
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Maximum Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)
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Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care
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Difficulty Level: Moderate
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Natural Behavior: Peaceful, sand-sifter, often seen sifting substrate for food; may form pairs
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Origin: Indo-Pacific reefs, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and northern Australia
The Chalk Goby (Valenciennea sexguttata) is a peaceful, active, and visually subtle marine fish that adds natural behavior and substrate maintenance to community and reef aquariums. With stable water conditions, a protein-rich diet, and ample sand substrate, it thrives as a long-lived and engaging member of the aquarium community.