Goby - Watchman Yellow
The Yellow Watchman Goby (Cryptocentrus cinctus) is a small, peaceful fish that is highly regarded for its vibrant coloration and interesting behavior. Here are the general requirements for keeping a Yellow Watchman Goby:
Tank size: Yellow Watchman Gobies are small fish that can thrive in smaller tanks. A tank with a capacity of 20 gallons (75 liters) or larger is generally suitable for a single Yellow Watchman Goby. If you plan to keep a mated pair, a larger tank is recommended to provide adequate swimming and territory space.
Tank setup: Provide a tank with a sandy substrate. Yellow Watchman Gobies like to dig and sift through sand, so a deep sand bed is beneficial for them. They appreciate the presence of live rock or coral structures, which provide hiding places and territories. Create caves, overhangs, and crevices for them to explore and establish their territory.
Water parameters: Maintain stable and pristine water conditions. The recommended water temperature for Yellow Watchman Gobies is between 72°F and 78°F (22°C - 26°C). The pH should range from 8.1 to 8.4, and the salinity level (specific gravity) should be maintained between 1.020 and 1.025. Regular monitoring of water parameters, proper filtration, and regular water changes are important for their well-being.
Lighting: Yellow Watchman Gobies do not have specific lighting requirements. They can adapt to a wide range of lighting conditions. However, providing moderate to low-intensity lighting that mimics their natural reef environment is generally suitable.
Feeding: Yellow Watchman Gobies are carnivorous and feed on a variety of small live and frozen foods. Offer a diet that includes high-quality prepared foods such as frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, copepods, and small pellet or flake foods. They may also pick at small invertebrates and microorganisms in the sand bed.
Tankmates: Yellow Watchman Gobies are generally peaceful and can be kept with other small, peaceful fish and invertebrates in a reef tank. They may form a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp, sharing a burrow for mutual protection. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or territorial species that may harass or outcompete them for food.
Acclimation: Proper acclimation is crucial when introducing a Yellow Watchman Goby to a new aquarium. Slowly drip acclimate the fish to the water parameters of your tank over a period of time to reduce stress and help them adjust to their new environment.
Yellow Watchman Gobies are generally hardy and easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. However, it's important to maintain stable water conditions, provide appropriate tankmates, and offer a varied diet to ensure their long-term health and well-being.
