SW - Pink Spotted Watchman Goby (Indonesia) - Medium

Introduction: • Common Names: Pink Spotted Watchman Goby, Pink Spotted Goby • Natural Habitat: Found in the sandy bottoms and coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in shallow waters. Physical Characteristics: • Appearance: Characterized by a slender body with a pale or cream base color adorned with vibrant pink spots; has a prominent head and large eyes. • Size: Typically grows to about 3 to 4 inches (7 to 10 cm) in length. • Lifespan: Can live for 5 to 7 years with proper care. Habitat Requirements: • Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a pair, with larger tanks preferred for groups. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: Thrives in water temperatures between 74-82°F (23-28°C). o pH: Prefers a pH range of 8.1 to 8.4. • Aquascaping: Needs plenty of hiding spots, such as caves and rock formations, along with sandy substrate for burrowing. Diet: • Primary Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small invertebrates, zooplankton, and other meaty foods in the wild. • Supplemental Feeding: High-quality pellet or flake foods, along with occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. • Feeding Frequency: Feed small portions 1-2 times a day to ensure adequate nutrition. Compatibility: • Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially when paired with a mate. • Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with other peaceful reef fish and invertebrates; ideal tank mates include other gobies and small wrasses. • Incompatibilities: Avoid housing with aggressive species that may stress or harm the goby. Care Level: • Difficulty: Moderate; requires stable water parameters and a varied diet for optimal health. • Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of stress and common marine diseases, such as ich or marine velvet. Breeding: • Breeding in Captivity: Can be bred in aquariums with the right conditions; pairs may form strong bonds. • Spawning: Egg layers that typically deposit eggs in hidden areas, where males guard them until hatching. Economic Considerations: • Market Demand: Popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to their striking appearance and interesting behavior. • Wholesale Pricing: Generally affordable, making them accessible to many hobbyists. • Retail Pricing: Prices may vary based on availability and locality but are typically in the moderate range. Sustainability and Conservation: • Wild Population: Currently stable, though habitat loss may pose potential threats. • Aquaculture Efforts: Limited captive breeding efforts, with many specimens still sourced from wild populations. Conclusion: The Pink Spotted Watchman Goby is a delightful and visually appealing species, ideal for marine aquariums. Its engaging behavior and peaceful temperament make it a favored choice for hobbyists looking to enhance their underwater landscape. With proper care and attention, this goby can thrive, adding vibrant color and activity to any reef setting.