Also Known As: Convict Blenny, Convict Goby Compatibility and BehaviorThe Engineer Goby (Pholidichthys leucotaenia) is a fascinating fish on a couple of levels, starting with the fact that it isn't really a goby at all, and it isn't a blenny either despite the "convict blenny" name. It's the sole member of its own odd little family, and it lives up to the "engineer" part with a serious talent for tunneling. It's a tiny, but proportionally long, sperm-like fish with bold black-and-white stripes that mimic a tiny, toxic coral catfish, a clever bit of protective disguise. It also somewhat resembles the swimming style of a tadpole. Watching a group of Engineer Gobies weaving in and out of the rockwork like a living tunnel network is a genuine spectacle, and they're often more confident and visible kept as a group introduced together rather than as a single fish. It's generally peaceful toward other fish and won't pick at coral tissue, clams, or anemones. Aquarium RequirementsGive them a tank of at least 40 gallons or larger with a deep sand bed at least 3 to 4 inches thick, ideally fine aragonite with some small rubble they can work into their burrows, plus plenty of ledges, overhangs, and caves to anchor the tunnel system and feel secure, since they spend most of their time in and around their tunnels rather than out in open water. A tight-fitting lid or mesh top is essential, as this species can be an expert escape artist when startled. Good filtration, moderate flow, and stable parameters round it out. Feed meaty foods like mysis, enriched brine, live blackworms, finely chopped seafood, and quality marine pellets once or twice a day. SpecificationsApproximate Size: Sm: 0.5–1", Md: 1–1.5", Lg: 1.5–2" (sold as juveniles; adults can grow larger over a long period of time)Diet: Carnivore; meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, live blackworms, finely chopped marine seafood, and quality marine pelletsOrigin: Indo-PacificCare Level: Easy to moderateReef Safe: With cautionTemperament: PeacefulMinimum Tank Size: 40 gallonsSpecial Considerations: Social and often bolder in a group; an escape artist that needs a tight-fitting lid, will grow over time
