Whitebarred Goby (Amblygobius phalaena)

Fish in the family Gobiidae. Easy care. Reef Safe.

Whitebarred Goby

Quick facts

Scientific nameAmblygobius phalaena
FamilyGobiidae
Care levelEasy
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-80°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

The Whitebarred Goby is a small, elongated fish with a tan or sandy-brown body marked by distinctive white vertical bars running across the flanks. It has a somewhat flattened head, large eyes positioned toward the front, and fused pelvic fins forming a suction disc. The dorsal and anal fins are translucent with subtle markings.

Diet and feeding

Feed small frozen or live foods such as copepods, amphipods, mysis shrimp, and small prepared pellets. This species is a benthic forager that naturally feeds on small crustaceans and organic debris in the sand.

Difficulty and care for the Whitebarred Goby

Easy - Suitable for beginners with basic care requirements and hardy nature.

Common health issues

Starvation if adequate microfauna absent, parasitic infections, sensitivity to sudden water quality changes

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and throughout Southeast Asia to the Philippines and Australia. Found in shallow reef environments and lagoons.

Log Whitebarred 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 Whitebarred Goby alongside everything else in your reef.