Broad band Shrimp goby

Amblyeleotris periophthalmus, commonly known as the Purple Stripe Goby or Pink-eyed Goby, is a species of goby that is popular among aquarists due to its interesting behavior and attractive appearance. It is often found in the Indo-Pacific region and forms a symbiotic relationship with burrowing shrimp, similar to other goby species.

Care and Description for Amblyeleotris periophthalmus:

Description:

• The Purple Stripe Goby typically has a distinct, bright yellow body with a series of purple or pinkish stripes running along the length of its body, especially along the lateral line. Its eyes often appear larger than normal and are red or pinkish, adding to its unique and striking appearance.
• It has a relatively small size, reaching an adult length of about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm), making it suitable for small to medium-sized aquariums.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

   • The minimum tank size for a single Amblyeleotris periophthalmus is typically 20 gallons. If keeping a pair, or a goby with a shrimp, a larger tank (around 30 gallons or more) will be necessary to give them enough space for burrowing and establishing a home.

2. Water Parameters:

   • Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C).
   • pH: 8.1 to 8.4 (slightly alkaline).
   • Salinity: Specific gravity of 1.023–1.025.
   • Ammonia/Nitrites: Zero.
   • Nitrates: Keep below 20 ppm for optimal health.

3. Diet:

   • Carnivorous in nature, the Purple Stripe Goby primarily feeds on small crustaceans, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, copepods, and other meaty foods like frozen or live worms.
   • Offer a variety of high-quality pellets or flakes designed for carnivores as well, especially if you want to ensure they receive a balanced diet.
   • Feeding near their burrow can make it easier for the goby to access food, as they tend to stay close to their shelter.

4. Tank Setup:

   • Substrate: A fine sand substrate is essential, as they are burrowers. The goby needs sand for burrowing and to establish a burrow system with its shrimp partner (if you're keeping one).
   • Live Rock: Provides places to hide, although the goby will typically stay near its burrow.
   • Burrow: If you are pairing them with a shrimp (commonly a pistol shrimp), they will dig and maintain a shared burrow, which is important for their well-being.
   • Ensure there are no sharp objects or large rocks that could impede their burrowing behavior.

5. Behavior and Personality:

   • Peaceful and shy, the Purple Stripe Goby spends most of its time in or near its burrow, often watching out for predators while the shrimp works on the burrow. It can become quite attached to its shrimp partner, and this mutualistic relationship is a hallmark of the species.
   • Not overly aggressive: It will typically get along well with other peaceful reef species and does best in a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
   • Active but elusive: Expect it to come out mostly during feeding times or when it feels safe, but don’t expect it to swim around freely as it prefers the safety of its burrow.

6. Tankmates:

   • Compatible with peaceful tankmates such as clownfish, blennies, and other small gobies.
   • It’s important to avoid housing them with aggressive or predatory species that might view them as prey.
   • If you want to keep it with a shrimp, a pistol shrimp is the most common partner. They both benefit from the relationship, with the shrimp providing a burrow and the goby providing protection.

7. Breeding:

   • Breeding in captivity is not very common, but it can occur with the proper conditions.
   • Gobies are egg-layers and often spawn in the burrow, where both the goby and shrimp may protect and care for the eggs until they hatch.

8. Special Considerations:

   • These gobies, like many others in the family, can be a bit skittish and may hide if disturbed. Provide plenty of hiding spots and gentle water flow in the aquarium.
   • Regular water changes and high-quality filtration are key to maintaining optimal water conditions.

In Summary:

• Amblyeleotris periophthalmus (Purple Stripe Goby) is a peaceful and attractive goby that thrives in an aquarium where it can form a symbiotic relationship with a shrimp partner.
• They are relatively easy to care for, provided the tank is large enough, has fine sand for burrowing, and offers plenty of hiding spots.
• With their peaceful nature and engaging behavior, they are perfect for a reef tank or community tank with other non-aggressive species.