Pinkbar Goby (Amblyeleotris aurora)

The Pinkbar Goby, also known as the Aurora Goby, is a stunning and peaceful fish known for its pink and white striped body with a distinctive red or pink stripe running along its side. This goby is commonly found in symbiotic relationships with pistol shrimp, forming a mutualistic bond where the shrimp digs and maintains a shared burrow, and the goby stands guard. The Pinkbar Goby is a popular choice for reef tanks, where its bold colors and fascinating behaviors make it a captivating addition.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum; requires a tank with a sandy substrate and rockwork for burrowing.
• Diet: Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It readily accepts high-quality frozen and pellet foods.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; best suited for community and reef tanks with other peaceful tankmates.
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate; hardy and adaptable, making it a good choice for aquarists of all levels.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates, making it an excellent addition to reef setups.

Special Feature - Symbiosis with Pistol Shrimp
The Pinkbar Goby often forms a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp, where the shrimp maintains a burrow and the goby acts as a lookout. Adding a pistol shrimp to the tank can enhance the natural behavior of the goby, creating a fascinating partnership to observe.

Compatibility
This goby is peaceful and works well with a variety of reef-safe tankmates. Avoid housing with aggressive fish that may disrupt its burrow or outcompete it for food. It is especially compatible with shrimp species, which can enhance its natural symbiotic behavior.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Pinkbar Goby features a distinctive pink stripe along its white body with bright yellow accents around the head and fins, making it a visually striking and attractive addition to the tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly in reef and sandy lagoon areas where it forms burrows with shrimp partners. In aquariums, it thrives in tanks with a sandy substrate and rockwork to mimic its natural habitat.