Shrimp gobies make fascinating and entertaining aquarium pets, especially when paired with a suitable pistol shrimp partner. Their classic symbiotic relationship needs no explanation. There are a ton of choices when it comes to shrimp gobies, and many remain small and are brightly colored. The staple genera to chose from include Cryptocentrus, Stonogobiops and Amblyeleotris. In the recent years, we’ve been seeing species from other lesser known goby genera such as Lotilia, Vanderhorstia, Flabelligobius and Tomiyamichthys – all excellent choices as well.
Here’s a quick spotlight on a pretty goby that’s currently in our care. The Amblyeleotris gobies are usually bigger than their more diminutive Stonogobiops counterparts. They are usually longer, more slender and possess flag like tails which taper at the ends. This A. latifasciata is a shining example of a shrimp goby. What’s pretty interesting is how it flares up its throat, puffing it up to make itself look bigger when another goby threatens its boundaries. There’s no messing with a shrimp goby when an intruder is on the prowl. It’s no wonder they are sometimes called watchmen gobies!
