Diamond Watchman Goby - Valenciennea puellaris

General Information

Also known as the Pretty Prawn Goby, Orange Spotted Goby, or Diamond Sleeper Goby, Valenciennea puellaris is one of the most interesting gobies. They live in burrows that they dig out beneath rocks, spending much of their time hiding or sitting in their burrow with only their head exposed. In the wild, these gobies form a symbiotic relationship with certain types of pistol shrimp. These shrimp are nearly blind, and the gobies, in exchange for food, will act as a lookout for the shrimp. This behaviour can be replicated in an aquarium, and is an interesting example of animal cooperation.

Environment

The Diamond Watchman Goby will live alone, or in a mated pair, and will form a relationship with some species of pistol shrimp. Like all marine animals, they require good water conditions. Because of their digging behaviour, they need a sandy bottom of at least 2-3 inches in which to dig a burrow and forage for food. Rocks should be carefully placed on the bottom of the tank, or supported off the bottom somehow to prevent their digging from creating a rock slide.

Diet

Valenciennea puellaris spends it's day digging in the sand, eating algea and tiny invertebrates that live there. They feed by scooping the sand into their mouths, then expelling it from their gills. In the wild, when paired with a shrimp, they would also recieve meaty food, so it is recommended that they be fed meaty treats at least once a day.

Last Update

December 28, 2003