Gobiodon okinawae is a small, bright yellow goby that spends much of its time resting on rocks or sheltered within branching corals. It grows to only about 3.5 cm in length and is suitable for a peaceful nano or reef aquarium.
The species is generally peaceful toward other fish, but may defend its territory against individuals of the same species and other similar gobies. In a small aquarium, it should be kept alone unless it is a compatible pair.
Features
- Small and peaceful reef fish
- Often rests on rocks and coral branches
- Thrives best in the company of peaceful fish
- Needs shelter and vantage points within the structure
- May be sensitive during transport and acclimation to the aquarium
Feeding
Feed with small-sized animal-based food, such as mysis, brine shrimp, cyclops, finely chopped shrimp, and small pellets intended for marine fish. Provide small portions 1–2 times a day. Ensure that the peaceful and small-sized fish has time to eat among other fish.
Compatibility
Gobiodon okinawae is suitable for a peaceful community aquarium. Large, aggressive, or very active fish can disturb it or make it difficult for it to feed.
The species prefers to stay in branching SPS corals, especially Acropora corals. Constant perching, nipping at polyps, or spawning on the coral surface can irritate the coral and cause local tissue damage. The risk is higher if the aquarium has only a few small SPS corals.
Care Instructions
Minimum aquarium size: approx. 50 liters for one individual
Temperature: 24–27 °C
Salinity: 34–36 ppt
Diet: small-sized animal-based food
Compatibility: peaceful and small-sized fish
Reef safe: With caution. It does not usually harm other invertebrates, but it can irritate or damage small Acropora corals in particular.
Additional Information
Scientific name: Gobiodon okinawae
English name: Yellow Clown Goby
Distribution: Western Pacific from Japan to Palau, the Marshall Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef
Maximum size: approx. 3.5 cm
Difficulty level: Moderate