Description
Jam Sandwich Goby – Valenciennea helsdingenii
Overview:
The Jam Sandwich Goby is a peaceful, sand-sifting goby known for its distinctive coloration resembling a “jam sandwich” with a pale body and dark midline stripe. It is highly active, constantly sifting through sand for food, making it both functional and visually engaging in reef aquariums.
Origin:
Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in sandy lagoon areas and reef slopes, where it forms burrows in sandy substrates.
Feeding:
Carnivorous – feeds on small invertebrates and micro-crustaceans in the sand. In aquariums, it accepts frozen mysis shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and sinking micro-pellets. Regular feeding ensures proper nutrition and natural sand-sifting behavior.
Tank Mates:
Peaceful and reef-safe, compatible with other non-aggressive fish. Avoid predatory or overly aggressive species that may disturb the sand bed.
Aggression:
Low. Territorial only with conspecifics of the same species; generally peaceful.
Experience Level:
Intermediate. Requires a deep sandy substrate (3–4 inches) for burrowing and foraging, as well as ample tank space for digging.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 74–78°F (23–26°C)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.020–1.025
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Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
The Jam Sandwich Goby (Valenciennea helsdingenii) is a peaceful, active sand-sifter that enhances the natural dynamics and visual appeal of reef aquariums, especially those with deep sandy substrates.
