Quick Stats
Moderate |
Temperament
Peaceful |
Color Form
Orange, White |
Diet
Carnivore |
Reef Compatible
Yes |
Specific Gravity (sg) 1.020-1.025, 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4 |
Max. Size
6 inches |
Family
Gobiidae |
Minimum Tank Size
30 gallons |
|
Description
The Diamond Sleeper Goby (Valenciennea puellaris), also known as the Maiden Goby or Orange Spotted Sleeper Goby, is a striking fish known for its intricate pattern of orange spots and lines across its body. Its peaceful nature and efficient sand-sifting behavior make it an excellent addition to reef tanks.
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this goby plays an important role in the aquarium by aerating the substrate, keeping the sand bed clean, and reducing detritus accumulation. It requires a tank with plenty of live rock, open swimming spaces, and a deep sand bed to exhibit its natural digging and sifting behavior.
The Diamond Sleeper Goby is a carnivore, primarily feeding on small invertebrates it finds while sifting through the sand. In captivity, it can be fed a diet of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other meaty frozen foods.
It’s best housed in peaceful community tanks, though caution should be taken with other sand-dwelling fish. Additionally, this goby is known to jump, so a secure lid is recommended. Its fascinating behavior and beautiful pattern make it a favorite for aquarists looking to maintain a healthy and clean sand bed.