Hector's Goby - Koumansetta hectori

Hector’s Goby (Koumansetta hectori)

Hector’s Goby (Koumansetta hectori) is a small, peaceful, and active marine fish known for its sleek appearance and unique black and yellow stripes. It is a great addition to reef aquariums due to its peaceful demeanor and beneficial sand-sifting behavior, helping to keep the tank clean.

Description:

• Common Name: Hector’s Goby

• Scientific Name: Koumansetta hectori

• Family: Gobiidae

• Size: Up to 2 inches (5 cm)

• Color: The body is primarily silver-gray with bold black horizontal stripes along its length, accompanied by subtle yellow highlights on the head and fins.

Native Region:

Hector’s Goby is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in coral reef environments in shallow waters. They are often seen hovering just above the substrate or darting in and out of crevices.

Aquarium Setup:

• Tank Size: Minimum of 10 gallons (40 liters)

• Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)

• pH: 8.1-8.4

• Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity

• Substrate: Fine sand is preferred, as Hector’s Goby enjoys sifting through the substrate for food. Provide plenty of live rock for hiding places.

• Diet: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including live or frozen brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped marine foods. They will also graze on algae and detritus found in the substrate.

Care Level:

• Difficulty: Easy

• Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive. They are best suited for community tanks and reef environments, as they will not harm corals or other invertebrates.

• Lifespan: 3-5 years in captivity

Sand-Sifting Behavior:

Hector’s Goby is known for its sand-sifting habits, helping to keep the substrate clean by consuming detritus, uneaten food, and small invertebrates. This behavior not only benefits the health of the tank but also adds a dynamic element to the aquarium.

Additional Tips:

• Tank Mates: Hector’s Goby is compatible with other peaceful reef fish, invertebrates, and corals. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or large predatory species that may bully or prey on them.

• Behavior: These gobies are generally active and can often be seen hovering close to the substrate or rock structures. They are shy but will quickly adapt to their surroundings, becoming more visible as they become comfortable in the tank.

• Water Quality: Stable water conditions are essential for Hector’s Goby. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are necessary to maintain high water quality.