Sandy grey speckled with rose-pink dots and blue flecks, planted at a burrow mouth with its eyes swivelling independently. The larger, more imposing partner in the goby and pistol shrimp alliance.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseLow
A calm, unhurried swimmer โ peaceful surroundings suit them best.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceGreat first pet
Forgiving and easy to get started with.
- Commitment4โ8 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Parasites
๐ Care guide
The Pink Spotted Watchman Goby (Cryptocentrus leptocephalus) comes from the western Pacific and grows to about 10 to 13 cm, noticeably larger than the yellow watchman. Its pale body is dotted with pink and blue spots and it sits upright at the entrance to a shared burrow, standing sentry while a nearly blind pistol shrimp excavates behind it. Give it 100 litres or more with a sand bed at least 7 cm deep plus rubble to shore up tunnels, at 24-27C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4. Cover the tank, as watchman gobies jump when startled. Feed mysis, enriched brine, chopped seafood and sinking marine pellets. It is reef safe and peaceful toward other species, though it will not tolerate a second burrowing goby in a small tank. Pairing it with a tiger or Randall's pistol shrimp produces one of the most watchable relationships in the hobby. Note that it shifts sand constantly and may dust low-lying corals, so place them accordingly.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Pink Spotted Watchman Goby?
Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer โ peaceful surroundings suit them best.
How much maintenance does a Pink Spotted Watchman Goby need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Pink Spotted Watchman Goby need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Pink Spotted Watchman Goby a good fit for first-time owners?
Great first pet. Forgiving and easy to get started with.
How long do Pink Spotted Watchman Goby live?
4โ8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Pink Spotted Watchman Goby?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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