Description
Blue Throat Tile Goby (Hoplolatilus starcki)
Overview:
The Blue Throat Tile Goby is a vibrant sand-sifting goby known for its striking blue throat patch and peaceful nature. Its burrowing and sifting behavior make it both functional and visually appealing in sandy reef aquariums.
Origin:
Native to the Indo-Pacific, typically found on sandy or rubble substrates near coral reefs.
Feeding:
Omnivorous. Feeds on small invertebrates, detritus, and microfauna within the substrate. In captivity, accepts finely chopped seafood, mysis shrimp, and high-quality sinking pellets. Requires a sandy substrate for natural burrowing and foraging behavior.
Tank Mates:
Peaceful and reef-safe. Compatible with other small, non-aggressive fish and invertebrates. Avoid housing with large, aggressive tank mates.
Aggression:
Non-aggressive and shy; spends most of its time sifting sand or in burrows.
Experience Level:
Intermediate. Requires a mature tank with deep sand beds, stable water parameters, and sufficient space for 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
