Also Known As: Diamond Watchman Goby, Orange-Spotted Sleeper Goby Compatibility and BehaviorThe Diamond Goby (Valenciennea puellaris) is one of the most useful working fish you can add to a sand bed, and it looks good doing the job. A sleek, pale white to silvery body is dotted with neat rows of small orange spots and dashes along the flanks, and the elongated body, oversized head, and constantly working mouth give it a busy, purposeful look as it patrols the substrate. What it's doing all day is the real appeal: taking in mouthfuls of sand, filtering out copepods and organic bits, and expelling the clean grains through its gills, which keeps the upper sand layer bright, aerated, and free of surface detritus. It's fully reef safe, and it's a true joy to watch it go about its work cleaning your substrate. Temperament is generally peaceful so this is a very versatile species for most tank setups, and we regularly carry a wide range of sizes to match. Aquarium RequirementsThe Diamond Goby wants a mature tank of around 30 gallons or larger with a deep, fine-grained bed at least 2 to 3 inches deep, since the substrate has to pass through its gills without damaging them. An open sand flat matters more to it than a lot of live rock, but scattered caves and overhangs near the substrate give it a secure retreat. A tight-fitting lid or mesh top is essential, as Diamond Gobies are notorious jumpers, especially in the first weeks after introduction. Offer frozen mysis, enriched brine, finely chopped seafood, and sinking pellets. SpecificationsApproximate Size: Sm: 1.5–2", Md: 2–2.5", Lg: 2.5–3", XL: 3–3.5"Diet: Carnivore; sifts sand for microfauna and detritus, supplemented with frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and sinking pelletsOrigin: Indo-PacificCare Level: Easy to moderateReef Safe: YesTemperament: PeacefulMinimum Tank Size: 30 gallonsSpecial Considerations: Needs a deep, fine sand bed of at least 2–3 inches for its constant sifting; larger individuals may prey on very small ornamental shrimp; a notorious jumper that needs a tight-fitting lid
