Railway Sleeper Goby (Valenciennea helsdingenii)
Max Size: 6 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
The Sleeper Railway Glider Goby, native to the rubble zones surrounding Sri Lankan reefs, boasts a striking appearance with its white coloration and two distinctive horizontal lines in black and orange running along its body. Its dorsal fin, edged in black, adds to its dramatic look. This timid fish serves as a valuable addition to a reef aquarium, aiding in the maintenance of the sand bed.
To ensure its well-being, the Sleeper Railway Glider Goby should be housed in a 30-gallon or larger aquarium with a fine to medium-sized sand substrate. This species takes shelter in shallow burrows within the substrate, contributing to effective oxygenation. While it rarely displays aggression towards other fish, it is territorial and may engage in fights with its own kind unless they form a mated pair.
Feeding off the bottom as it sifts through the sand, the Sleeper Railway Glider Goby's diet should include a variety of frozen brine and mysis shrimp, bloodworms, and prepared foods suitable for carnivores. Providing at least daily feedings will help maintain its health and vitality.