Description

Harbour Goby – Cryptocentrus fasciatus

Overview:
The Harbour Goby is a hardy, sand-dwelling species recognized by its distinct horizontal striping and watchful behavior. Like other watchman gobies, it often forms a mutualistic bond with pistol shrimp, creating burrows and standing guard. This makes it both a useful and entertaining addition to the reef tank.

Origin:
Native to the Indo-Pacific, inhabiting sandy lagoons, rubble zones, and sheltered reef areas.

Feeding:
Carnivorous – eats small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and sinking pellets. Best fed in small amounts several times daily.

Tank Mates:
Peaceful and reef-safe, works well with most community reef fish. Avoid aggressive or overly territorial species that may outcompete it for food.

Aggression:
Low. May be territorial toward other gobies but generally docile; most aggression is limited to defending its burrow.

Experience Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. Hardy and adaptable, but thrives best with a sandy substrate and rockwork for burrowing.

Water Parameters:

Temperature: 74–78°F (23–26°C)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.020–1.025
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

The Harbour Goby (Cryptocentrus fasciatus) is a durable, easy-to-care-for goby that provides both function and personality to reef aquariums.