Dragon Goby

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Amblyeleotris maculata
• Common Name: Dragon Goby / Spotted Shrimp Goby
• Adult Size: Up to 4 inches (10 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5–7 years in captivity with proper care
• Habitat:
  • Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef and Western Pacific
  • Inhabits sandy or rubble-bottomed lagoons and reef flats
  • Found at depths of 1–30 meters, often in symbiosis with pistol shrimp (Alpheus spp.)

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20–30 gallons (75–115 liters)
• Ideal Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH
• Temperament:
  • Peaceful and suitable for reef tanks
  • Can be kept singly, as a mated pair, or with a symbiotic pistol shrimp partner
  • May be territorial toward other gobies in small tanks
  • Jump risk – a secure lid is necessary

Diet

Omnivorous
Diet should include:

• Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp
• Finely chopped marine meats
• High-quality sinking pellets or wafers
• Copepods and amphipods (especially in live rock setups)

Feed 1–2 times daily, preferably near the bottom

Appearance

Distinctive Features:

• Light cream to white body with several large reddish-brown or maroon spots along the sides
• Spots are often outlined in darker pigmentation, giving a striking, dotted look
• Long dorsal fin may have dark edges or patterns
• Eyes are elevated, aiding in scanning for predators while guarding burrow
• Typically found hovering near a shared burrow with a pistol shrimp partner