Description
The Dracula Goby is a small, striking shrimp-associated goby with a white body marked by bold red to orange bands and an elongated, elegant appearance. It is a peaceful bottom-dweller that spends much of its time around a burrow, often forming a fascinating symbiotic relationship with a pistol shrimp. This species is shy at first but becomes more confident when provided with a secure burrow and suitable tankmates.
Lighting:
Low to moderate.
Normal reef lighting is acceptable, but provide shaded areas and rockwork where the goby can retreat.
Placement (Aquarium Zone):
Bottom — stays close to the substrate and its burrow, usually around sandy areas beneath or beside rockwork.
Temperature:
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity:
1.024–1.026 SG
pH:
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity:
8–10 dKH
Flow:
Low to moderate, with gentle-to-moderate flow around the burrow. Avoid excessively strong currents directly across its preferred resting area.
Diet:
Carnivorous / planktivorous.
The Dracula Goby feeds on small crustaceans and other tiny meaty foods. It benefits from regular access to appropriately sized food and may pick small organisms from the substrate and surrounding rockwork.
Foods:
Mysis shrimp
Enriched brine shrimp
Copepods
Small zooplankton
Finely chopped marine seafood
Small frozen foods
Small marine pellets
Feed 1–2 times daily, offering small portions near its burrow so it can feed without excessive competition.
Adult Size (up to):
Approx. 8–9 cm (3–3.5 in)
Care Level:
Intermediate
