Description
Crosshatch Goby (Valenciennea muralis)
Overview:
The Crosshatch Goby is a peaceful and elegant sand-sifting goby, recognized for its subtle crosshatched patterns along its body. Its constant burrowing and sifting behavior helps maintain substrate cleanliness while adding activity to the aquarium.
Origin:
Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found on sandy and rubble substrates near coral reefs.
Feeding:
Omnivorous. Feeds on small invertebrates, detritus, and microfauna within the sand. In captivity, accepts finely chopped seafood, mysis shrimp, and high-quality sinking pellets. Requires a deep sandy substrate to perform natural burrowing and sifting behaviors.
Tank Mates:
Peaceful and reef-safe. Compatible with small, non-aggressive fish and invertebrates. Avoid larger or aggressive tank mates.
Aggression:
Non-aggressive and shy; spends most of its time burrowing or sifting sand.
Experience Level:
Intermediate. Requires a mature tank with deep sand beds, stable water parameters, and plenty of space for natural burrowing.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72–78°F (22–25.5°C)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.025
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dKH: 8–12
