Crested Sand Goby (Lophogobius cyprinoides)

Max Size: 4 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

For enthusiasts considering Lophogobius Gobies for their aquariums, it's important to provide a well-established tank with ample swimming space. The addition of rock formations, cracks, crevices, and caves with a sand bed is essential to offer hiding spots for these small and adaptable gobies. They generally fit well in most reef aquarium setups and have been observed in marine, brackish, and freshwater environments. To maintain their health, a diet rich in meaty and algae-based foods should be provided multiple times a day. In case of difficulty enticing them to feed, adult, fortified Brine shrimp and black worms can be offered.

Lophogobius Gobies tend to be shy and peaceful, making them suitable tankmates for other peaceful species. However, it's best to keep them either alone or in pairs, as they may become aggressive towards other Goby species. One unique aspect of these gobies is their hermaphroditic nature, meaning they are born as females and may later transition into males.

To prevent any escape attempts, it's advisable to have a tightly fitting aquarium lid, as gobies have been known to jump. There are distinguishable color differences between males and females of the species. While Crested Gobies are not commonly found in the aquarium trade, they can be intriguing additions. Males tend to be more colorful and slightly darker than females. Both genders generally exhibit a red-brown to olive mottled coloration. During the breeding season, males may develop black and orange spots, which can sometimes change to a violet-black hue. Conversely, females typically have paler spots and lines. These gobies have the potential to grow to almost 4 inches in size.

Considering the needs of Lophogobius Gobies, we recommend a minimum aquarium size of 30 gallons or larger to accommodate their well-being.