Gobiodon okinawae – Okinawa coral goby

Gobiodon okinawae – Okinawa coral goby. The Gobiodon okinawae, commonly known as the Okinawa goby, is a small, reef-dwelling goby with a striking bright yellow color. Sometimes, light, almost white walls...

Gobiodon okinawae – Okinawa coral goby

The Gobiodon okinawae , commonly known as the Okinawa goby , is a small, reef-dwelling goby with a striking bright yellow color . Light, almost white cheeks are sometimes visible, giving this fish an especially charming appearance. Despite its simple appearance, this fish has a particularly interesting behavior.

Natural behavior & residence

In the wild, the Gobiodon okinawae lives among the branches of Acropora corals , where it is often observed resting or "floating." In the aquarium, it exhibits the same behavior. It usually chooses a coral or structure high in the aquarium and uses it as a lookout post, from which it observes the entire aquarium—like a true sentinel.

Although in the wild it is almost exclusively seen with Acropora, in the aquarium it is not fussy and is also very suitable for aquariums without Acropora corals.

Social behavior

In the wild, these fish are often found in groups of 5 to 15 individuals . In an aquarium, this is only recommended if there is sufficient space and territorial potential. In smaller aquariums, the Gobiodon okinawae is best kept solitary .

It is a very peaceful fish that poses no threat to other inhabitants, except possibly to similar-looking gobies in aquariums that are too small. Avoid housing them with large carnivores with wide mouths.

Power supply

Gobiodon okinawae is a carnivore and requires regular feeding. Ideally, it should be fed several times a day . If it doesn't get enough food, its abdomen can quickly collapse.

Suitable nutrition consists of:

• Copepods
• Artemia (brine shrimp)
• High-quality granulate or flake food (if accepted)

Compatibility with corals

This goby may occasionally nibble on very small SPS polyps . Considering the growth rate of SPS corals, this usually doesn't cause significant damage .

Specifications

• Scientific name: Gobiodon okinawae
• Common name: Okinawa goby
• Care level: Average
• Origin: Indo-Pacific, Philippines
• Temperament: Peaceful

The Gobiodon okinawae is an excellent choice for reef enthusiasts seeking a small, characterful fish with unique behavior and striking coloration.