Introduction to the Mandarin Goby
The Mandarin Goby is a widely distributed species of fish found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world. Despite its name, it is not a species native to China, but rather is named for its coloration and the pattern of spots that resemble the color of the robes worn by mandarins or officials of Imperial China. The Mandarin Goby is a small, bottom-dwelling fish, measuring in at less than eight centimeters in length. It has an oval, flattened body and can be found in a variety of colors, ranging from yellow to greenish, blue to red. Its barbels and eyes are usually reflective, and its body is marked with a distinctive pattern of spots that often appears in shades of orange, yellow, and blue.
Habitat and Behavior
The Mandarin Goby lives in a wide range of temperate and tropical waters around the world. In the wild, it can be found living on coral reefs, in estuaries, near mangroves, and even in shallow lagoons. It prefers to live in sheltered habitats, such as caves, crevices, and overhangs, which provide protection from predators. It is an omnivorous species that feeds primarily on small crustaceans and zooplankton.
Mandarin Goby typically form small social groups or schools with other members of their species. They can easily recognize other members of their group by sight, and typically remain in close proximity with each other. During the day, Mandarin Goby are relatively inactive and will use their fins to hover in one spot over the substrate. At night, they become more active, and can be seen feeding or chasing after other schools of fish.
Aquarium Care
The Mandarin Goby is a popular choice for aquariums and has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its bright colors and peaceful nature. In the aquarium, it should be provided with plenty of live rock and plenty of small hiding places such as rocks and caves. It is also important to provide ample swimming space and to maintain good water quality with regular water changes.
Mandarin Goby should be kept in small groups of five or more to reduce aggression. When kept in small schools, Mandarin Goby will often form strong social bonds and will often move in synchrony with one another. They should be fed a variety of foods such as small crustaceans, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, finely chopped meat, and dried seaweed.
Breeding
Mandarin Goby are fairly easy to breed in the home aquarium, and can be induced to spawn with the addition of a large, shallow rock or shell to the tank. The male fish will clean the rock prior to spawning, typically by digging a shallow depression around the base. The males will then produce a sound to attract the females and encourage them to lay their eggs on the rock or shell. The eggs will then be vigorously guarded and tended to by both male and female parents.
Once the eggs have hatched, the fry should be removed from the main aquarium and placed in a separate tank for rearing. The fry should be fed with a variety of small live foods such as newly hatched brine shrimp. The fry will grow quickly, reaching maturity in less than six months.
Conclusion
The Mandarin Goby is an attractive, colorful fish that is becoming increasingly popular among aquarists. It is relatively easy to care for and can be bred in the home aquarium. Its bright coloration and peaceful nature make it an excellent choice for the home aquarium. With the right care, the Mandarin Goby can be an enjoyable addition to any community aquarium.