Stonogobiops xanthorhinica
ANTENA / RED BANDED GOBY
ANTENA / RED BANDED GOBY
SKU:F-GOB-016
Low stock: 1 left
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Easy
Peaceful
Reef Safe
Yellowface Shrimp Goby
Yellowface Shrimp Goby – Stonogobiops xanthorhinica
The Yellowface Shrimp Goby, scientifically known as Stonogobiops xanthorhinica, is one of the most attractive marine gobies. It belongs to the genus Stonogobiops, a group commonly known as Shrimp Gobies, famous for their remarkable symbiotic relationship with Pistol Shrimp.
In this fascinating partnership, the shrimp excavates and maintains the burrow while the goby stands guard, using its excellent eyesight to warn the shrimp of approaching danger. This unique behavior makes the pair one of the most captivating displays in a reef aquarium.
The Yellowface Shrimp Goby features a bright white body decorated with fine red stripes, a vivid yellow face, and an elegant elongated dorsal fin. Its peaceful temperament makes it an outstanding choice for small to medium-sized reef aquariums.
Key Features
- Bright yellow face accented by elegant red striping.
- Forms a fascinating symbiotic relationship with Pistol Shrimp.
- Completely reef-safe with corals and invertebrates.
- Very peaceful temperament, ideal for community reef aquariums.
- Adds natural and highly entertaining behavior to the aquarium.
Aquarium Requirements
- Minimum Aquarium Size: Approximately 75 liters (20 gallons).
- Provide a sandy substrate with plenty of live rock to allow burrow construction.
- Can be kept with a compatible Pistol Shrimp to establish a natural symbiotic partnership.
- A tightly fitting aquarium lid is essential, as this species may jump when startled.
- Requires stable water quality with moderate water movement.
Compatibility & Temperament
| Aggression Level | Very peaceful |
| Reef Compatibility | Yes, completely reef-safe |
| Fish Compatibility | Compatible with most peaceful marine fish and reef invertebrates |
| Social Behavior | May become territorial toward members of its own species in smaller aquariums. |
The Yellowface Shrimp Goby is an excellent community fish that coexists peacefully with most reef inhabitants. It is best known for its remarkable partnership with Pistol Shrimp, where both animals benefit from living together and displaying fascinating natural behavior.
Feeding
The Yellowface Shrimp Goby feeds on small marine prey and suspended planktonic foods. A varied diet helps maintain excellent health, vibrant coloration, and natural activity.
Recommended foods include:
- Frozen Mysis Shrimp.
- Vitamin-enriched Brine Shrimp.
- Frozen marine foods.
- Small marine pellets and flakes.
- Marine plankton and other fine particulate foods.
Reefamorous Tip: Feeding several small meals each day closely matches the natural feeding habits of this species. Pairing it with a compatible Pistol Shrimp in a sandy aquarium creates one of the most fascinating symbiotic displays found in reef aquariums.
