Watchman Goby
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Watchman Goby (Amblygobius phalaena)
Overview
The Watchman Goby (Amblygobius phalaena), also known as the Banded Sleeper Goby or Bullet Goby, is a peaceful, sand-sifting species native to the Indo-Pacific region. It is easily identified by its cream-colored body marked with distinct horizontal brown bands and a prominent black spot on the dorsal fin.
This goby is highly valued for its role in maintaining a clean substrate, constantly sifting sand to remove detritus while exhibiting calm and inquisitive behavior—making it an excellent choice for reef and community aquariums.
Aquarium Requirements
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Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons (150 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 fine sandy substrate (3–5 inches) for burrowing and sifting, along with live rock for shelter and natural grazing surfaces
Watchman Gobies thrive in established aquariums with stable water parameters and a sandy substrate that allows for their natural digging and feeding behaviors.
Diet and Feeding
Watchman Gobies are carnivorous sand sifters and feed primarily on small invertebrates found in the substrate:
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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 or marine flakes formulated for carnivorous fish
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Feed 2–3 times daily, ensuring food reaches the substrate where they naturally forage
A varied diet supports strong coloration, vitality, and active behavior.
Temperament and Compatibility
Watchman Gobies are peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish that coexist well with other non-aggressive species. They may become territorial toward similar gobies if kept in smaller tanks but generally remain calm in larger aquariums.
Tankmate Recommendations:
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Suitable: Clownfish, blennies, firefish, small tangs, and other peaceful reef species
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Avoid: Large, aggressive, or predatory fish
Providing sand for burrowing and plenty of hiding spots encourages natural behavior and reduces stress.
Reef Compatibility
✅ Reef Safe
Watchman Gobies are reef safe and do not harm corals or sessile invertebrates. Their sand-sifting behavior also helps maintain a healthy, aerated 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: Easy to Moderate
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Natural Behavior: Peaceful, sand-sifter, bottom-dweller, may burrow under rocks for shelter
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Origin: Indo-Pacific, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Great Barrier Reef
The Watchman Goby (Amblygobius phalaena) is a peaceful and practical addition to reef and community aquariums, offering both visual appeal and substrate maintenance. With stable water parameters, a sandy substrate, and a protein-rich diet, it thrives as a long-lived and engaging member of the marine aquarium community.
| SKU | Watchman Goby |
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