Catalina Goby (Lythrypnus dalli)
Fish in the family Gobiidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
A tiny, bright red to orange goby with a somewhat elongated body, pale belly, and characteristic bulbous head. Males display distinctive eyebrow-like markings and can be darker than females.
Diet and feeding
Small crustaceans, copepods, amphipods, frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and other small meaty foods.
Difficulty and care for the Catalina Goby
Moderate - Requires colder water temperatures than typical tropical reef tanks. Best suited for intermediate aquarists with appropriate setup.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder, Bacterial infections, Parasitic infestations, Temperature stress
Origin and habitat
Eastern Pacific, endemic to the Channel Islands off Southern California.
Keeper notes
Requires colder water temperatures (60-72°F) than typical tropical reef tanks. Not suitable for warm water reef tanks. Very popular and colorful nano fish.
Log Catalina Goby in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Catalina Goby alongside everything else in your reef.