Ginsburgellus novemlineatus, or the nine-line goby, is a beautiful shallow water fish that is often found living in close proximity to sea urchins in the wild. The red-eyed goby is dark brown and decorated with neon blue stripes. The goby is native to the Atlantic, and is occasionally imported for the aquarium trade. Due to their small size and striking coloration, they are ever popular with the nano-tank enthusiasts.
Although reported to do well in the aquarium without their sea urchins, these fish do markedly better in the presence of one. In the wild, these nano gobies live amongst the spines of the urchin, and take cover in their spiky shelters when alarmed. They are known to eat the tube feet of the sea urchin from which it seeks shelter as well. Although they do take standard aquarium fare and are not obligate urchin tube-feet consumers, they were quick to respond when an urchin was introduced to their holding tanks.
When an urchin was placed into their tanks, the gobies went from being in a zen, almost trance like state to maniacs. It seemed as though the urchins were the drug. Almost immediately the gobies started swimming inbetween the spines, nibbling on the tube feet and displayed overall happiness with the addition of their new security thorn globe.
If you do happen to consider getting this monotypic Ginsburgellus goby, do consider getting an urchin along with it.
