Masked Shrimpgoby - Amblyeleotris gymnocephala - Large

The Masked Shrimpgoby (Amblyeleotris gymnocephala) has a pale beige body with blurry tan bands. Each thicker band alternates with a thin stripe. This goby also has a dark brown dash behind each eye.

This fish is best known as part of the group of gobies known as shrimpgobies. They form symbiotic relationships with certain pistol shrimp. These shrimp build and maintain a burrow for them both to live in, and the goby defends the lair and supplies food. Shrimpgobies are also minor sandsifters but will not sift as much as those generally referred to as "Sleeper Gobies".

These gobies will eat a variety of frozen foods and possibly flake and pellet. Gobies prefer a tank with plenty of rocky hiding places. They get along with most tankmates, but can be aggressive toward other gobies. Gobies are known jumpers; when startled or threatened, they have been known to jump out of uncovered aquariums. Always keep the tank covered and provide plenty of hiding places for this fish to retreat to.

Visit That Fish Blog for more information from our marine biologists on Gobies, Pistol Shrimp and other aquarium-related topics!