Orange Banded Prawn Goby

The Orange Banded Prawn Goby (Amblyeleotris guttata), also known as the Orange Stripe Prawn Goby, is a fascinating and visually striking saltwater fish often kept in marine aquariums. These gobies have a unique mutualistic relationship with pistol shrimp, where they share a burrow. To provide the best care for an Orange Banded Prawn Goby in your saltwater aquarium, follow this care guide.

Tank Size

A suitable tank size for an Orange Banded Prawn Goby is at least 30 gallons (approximately 113 liters). A larger tank offers more space and stability for the goby and its pistol shrimp partner.

Water Quality

Maintain stable water parameters, including a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C) and a specific gravity of around 1.025. Regularly test and adjust pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates to ensure optimal water quality.

Filtration

Use an efficient filtration system, such as a protein skimmer, to provide biological filtration and remove waste, ensuring water clarity. Live rock is beneficial, as it supports a diverse microfauna population that can serve as a natural food source for the goby.

Diet

Orange Banded Prawn Gobies are carnivorous and feed primarily on small invertebrates and zooplankton. Provide a varied diet that includes high-quality frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other small marine invertebrates.

Feeding Schedule

These gobies are continuous grazers and should be fed multiple times throughout the day to ensure they receive enough food.

Tankmates

Orange Banded Prawn Gobies are generally peaceful and are best kept in a species-specific tank with their pistol shrimp partner. Avoid aggressive or predatory tankmates that might threaten the goby or its burrow.

Burrow and Pistol Shrimp

Provide substrate in the tank for the goby to create a burrow, or you can use a pre-made PVC pipe with a sand entrance. Introduce a compatible pistol shrimp species (e.g., Alpheus spp.) to establish a mutualistic relationship with the goby. The pistol shrimp digs and maintains the burrow while the goby acts as a lookout and shares food.

Water Flow and Lighting

Maintain moderate water flow to simulate their natural habitat. Use suitable lighting for the health of your coral and other tank inhabitants, especially if your aquarium is a reef tank.

Quarantine

Quarantine new fish and invertebrates before introducing them to your main tank to prevent the spread of disease.

Observation

Regularly monitor your goby for any signs of stress, disease, or aggression, and take appropriate actions if any issues arise.

Maintaining an Orange Banded Prawn Goby and its pistol shrimp partner can be a unique and captivating addition to your marine aquarium. The successful establishment of their mutualistic relationship is a key aspect of their care. Proper feeding, water quality, and a suitable environment will contribute to their well-being and ensure their long-term health in your tank.