Yellow Goby

Yellow Goby (Gobiodon okinawae)

Overview

The Yellow Goby (Gobiodon okinawae), also known as the Okinawan Coral Goby, is a small, vibrant reef fish notable for its bright yellow coloration and charming, inquisitive behavior. Native to the western Pacific, particularly around Okinawa and Japan, this species typically inhabits branching corals, making it an ideal choice for reef aquariums.

This hardy and peaceful goby is reef-safe and adds color, personality, and activity to small to medium marine tanks.

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 10–20 gallons (40–75 litres)

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: < 10 ppm

• Aquascape: Provide live rock with branching corals or coral-like structures for shelter and perching

Yellow Gobies thrive in established, stable reef tanks with plenty of coral cover or similar structures.

Diet and Feeding

The Yellow Goby is carnivorous and benefits from a varied diet:

• High-quality marine flakes or micro-pellets

• Frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or finely chopped seafood

• Occasional live foods to encourage natural foraging

Feed small portions 2–3 times daily. Their small size and constant activity mean frequent, small meals work best.

Temperament and Compatibility

Gobiodon okinawae is peaceful and non-aggressive, making it compatible with most reef inhabitants. They may defend their immediate coral territory but do not pose a threat to other fish.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Other small reef fish like clownfish, blennies, cardinalfish, and small gobies

• Avoid: Large or aggressive species that may outcompete or harass them

Providing adequate coral structures allows them to establish territory and reduces stress.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

The Yellow Goby is reef safe and will not harm corals or sessile invertebrates. Its natural behavior of living within corals enhances the visual appeal and biodiversity of the reef tank.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 3 cm (1.2 inches)

• Lifespan: 2–4 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Easy

• Natural Behavior: Peaceful, coral-dweller, small territorial ranges

• Origin: Western Pacific, including Okinawa, Japan

The Yellow Goby (Gobiodon okinawae) is a small, peaceful, and brightly colored reef fish that adds charm, personality, and color to small to medium reef aquariums. With stable water parameters, plenty of coral cover, and a varied carnivorous diet, it thrives as a lively and engaging member of the aquarium community.