Shotsilk Goby

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (115 litres)

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate:< 10 ppm

• Aquascape: Provide live rock with caves and crevices for shelter, along with open swimming areas; a sandy substrate is recommended for natural hovering and darting behaviors

The Shot Silk Goby thrives in well-established aquariums with stable water parameters and secure hiding places.

Diet and Feeding

Shot Silk Gobies are carnivorous and feed on small, meaty foods:

• Frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood

• High-quality marine flakes or micro-pellets formulated for carnivorous fish

• Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions to ensure active feeding

A varied diet supports vibrant coloration, energy, and overall health.

Temperament and Compatibility

Shot Silk Gobies are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them well-suited for community aquariums. They often hover near the substrate and dart into crevices for security when startled.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Clownfish, gobies, firefish, blennies, and other peaceful reef species

• Avoid: Large or aggressive fish

Providing plenty of caves and open swimming areas allows them to display natural behavior safely.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

Shot Silk Gobies are reef safe and do not harm corals or sessile invertebrates, making them suitable for reef aquariums.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches)

• Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Natural Behavior: Peaceful, hovers above substrate, retreats into crevices when threatened

• Origin: Indo-Pacific

The Shot Silk Goby (Ptereleotris zebra) is a peaceful, elegant, and active marine fish that enhances both the visual appeal and biodiversity of reef and community aquariums. With stable water parameters, a protein-rich diet, and ample hiding spots, it thrives as a long-lived and engaging member of the aquarium community.