Engineer Goby

The Engineer Goby (Pholidichthys leucotaenia), also known as the Convict Blenny, is a fascinating addition to marine aquariums, renowned for its unique appearance and burrowing behavior.

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Color Form: Juveniles display horizontal black and white stripes; adults exhibit vertical bands.
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Water Conditions:
  • Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025
  • Temperature: 72–78°F
  • dKH: 8–12
  • pH: 8.1–8.4
• Maximum Size: Up to 12 inches
• Family: Pholidichthyidae
• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons

Overview: The Engineer Goby undergoes a notable transformation as it matures. Juveniles feature horizontal black and white stripes, resembling a convict's uniform, which shift to vertical bands in adulthood. This species is known for its burrowing activity, often creating intricate tunnel systems within the aquarium substrate. In the wild, they inhabit shallow lagoons and coastal reefs, where they form colonies and construct extensive burrow networks.

Care Tips:

• Tank Setup: Provide a well-established aquarium with a deep sand bed and stable rock structures to support their burrowing behavior. Ensure that rock formations are secure to prevent collapses due to their digging activities.
• Feeding: As carnivores, Engineer Gobies thrive on a diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Feeding 2–3 times daily supports their growth and health.
• Compatibility: Generally peaceful, they coexist well with other non-aggressive fish. However, their burrowing can disrupt the substrate, potentially affecting the placement of corals and other tank decorations.

Fun Fact: Despite their name, Engineer Gobies are not true gobies but belong to the family Pholidichthyidae. Their name derives from their remarkable ability to "engineer" complex burrow systems in their environment.

By providing appropriate tank conditions and a suitable diet, the Engineer Goby can be a captivating and beneficial addition to your marine aquarium.