Gold Head Sleeper Goby

Description:
The Gold Head Sleeper Goby, also known as the Golden Head Goby or Yellow Head Sleeper Goby, is a striking saltwater fish distinguished by its pale body, vivid yellow head, and bright blue markings under its eyes. Known for its sand-sifting behavior, this goby helps keep the substrate clean and aerated, making it both functional and beautiful in a marine aquarium.

Care Level:

• Ease: Moderate (requires specific feeding and tank setup).
• Water Conditions:
  • Salinity: 1.020–1.025 specific gravity.
  • pH: 8.1–8.4.
  • Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C).
• Tank Requirements:
  • Minimum tank size: 30 gallons.
  • Requires a deep sandy substrate for burrowing and sifting.
  • Ensure plenty of live rock for shelter and a stable aquascape to prevent collapses.
  • Excellent water quality and consistent parameters are essential.

Temperament:

• Behavior: Peaceful but territorial toward other gobies of similar size or appearance.
• Compatibility:
  • Pairs well with other peaceful, reef-safe fish like clownfish, firefish, and blennies.
  • Avoid keeping with aggressive fish or other sand-sifting gobies to prevent competition.
  • May form a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp.

Size:

• Adult Length: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm).
• Growth: Larger than many gobies, making it suitable for mid-to-large tanks.

Reef Compatibility:

• 100% reef-safe.
• Will not harm corals or invertebrates.
• Beneficial for keeping sand beds clean by sifting and aerating the substrate.

Additional Notes:
The Gold Head Sleeper Goby is an omnivore and should be fed a varied diet of frozen foods like mysis and brine shrimp, along with sinking pellets or flakes. As they sift sand for food, ensure they are getting enough nutrition, especially in tanks without a mature sand bed. Their sand-sifting behavior is a natural part of their foraging and helps maintain tank cleanliness. With proper care and a stable environment, they can live for 5–7 years, making them a functional and visually appealing addition to a marine or reef aquarium.