The Half-Barred Goby (Amblygobius semicinctus) is a beautiful goby found among the eastern Indian Ocean and western Pacific. They have a tan or white body with darker vertical stripes, a white underbelly and occasional blue markings. They can be found among lagoons or rocky quarries, where they hide among the sand/rock and search for small crustaceans in the substrate. In the home aquarium, they should be kept with a thick sand bed of at least 3 inches, so they can dig and search for food. They do best in established aquariums, as newer tanks may have little food/ nutrients in the sand. Their diet should consist of live copepods or cyclops, as well as frozen food, such as mysis or krill. They are peaceful and do well in reef aquariums. Reaching a maximum size of around 4-1/2 inches, they should be housed in an aquarium of at least 30 gallons. A lid is recommended, as they are capable of jumping. 

Unveiling the Half-Barred Goby (Amblygobius semicinctus): A Vibrant Marvel for Your Marine Aquarium

Habitat of the Half-Barred Goby

The Half-Barred Goby, scientifically known as Amblygobius semicinctus, is a fascinating marine species that adds vitality to saltwater aquariums. Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, these gobies are commonly found in coral rubble, sandy areas, and seagrass beds. In aquariums, replicating their natural habitat is crucial for their well-being, with a recommended substrate of fine sand to facilitate their foraging behavior.

Reef Safety of the Half-Barred Goby

Considered reef-safe, the Half-Barred Goby is a suitable addition to coral-dominated aquariums. They exhibit no destructive behaviors towards corals or other invertebrates, making them compatible with diverse marine life.

Size and Lifespan of the Half-Barred Goby

Typically reaching 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm), the Half-Barred Goby is a relatively small species, making it suitable for smaller aquarium setups. They can live up to 5 years in captivity with proper care, providing enthusiasts long-term enjoyment.

Diet in Captivity: Culinary Preferences of the Half-Barred Goby

Half-Barred Gobies are omnivorous, requiring a varied diet for optimal health. They feed on small crustaceans, copepods, amphipods, and other tiny invertebrates. Additionally, providing a high-quality marine pellet or flake food will help meet their nutritional needs.

Aquaculture and Availability

The Half-Barred Goby is currently successfully aquacultured, making it readily available to hobbyists. Aquacultured specimens are preferable as they are often hardier and better acclimated to aquarium life than wild-caught individuals.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates

Half-barred Gobies exhibit a peaceful temperament, making them compatible with various tank mates. However, caution should be exercised when choosing tank mates to ensure they share similar water parameter requirements. Compatible species include Banggai Cardinalfish, Firefish Gobies, Royal Grammas, and Clownfish.

Sexual Dimorphism in the Half-Barred Goby

Distinguishing between male and female Half-Barred Gobies can be challenging, as they do not display significant sexual dimorphism. However, males may exhibit more vibrant colors and increased activity during breeding.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes of the Half-Barred Goby

As juveniles, Half-Barred Gobies typically display subdued colors, with a brownish or greyish body featuring distinctive bars. As they mature, their coloration intensifies, showcasing a striking mix of blue, yellow, and black bars along their body.

Temperament of the Half-Barred Goby

Known for their peaceful nature, Half-Barred Gobies are an excellent choice for community aquariums. They are not aggressive towards other fish or invertebrates, contributing to a harmonious aquatic environment.

Tank Requirements for the Half-Barred Goby

• Minimum Aquarium Size: A tank with a capacity of at least 20 gallons is recommended.
• Hiding Spots: Adequate hiding spots, such as PVC pipes or miniature caves, should be provided to create a secure environment.

Water Conditions for the Half-Barred Goby

• pH: Maintain a stable pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Salinity: Keep the salinity in the range of 1.020 and 1.025.
• Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 74°F and 78°F.
• Water Flow: Moderate to high flow, mimicking their natural habitat conditions.

Other Common Names of the Half-Barred Goby

The Half-Barred Goby is also known as the Barred Goby or Sleeper Banded Goby.

Five Compatible Tank Mates for the Half-Barred Goby

• Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni)
• Firefish Gobies (Nemateleotris spp.)
• Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto)
• Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.)
• Watchman Goby (Cryptocentrus spp.)

Why Choose Saltwaterfish.com for Your Half-Barred Goby

When selecting the Half-Barred Goby for your aquarium, Saltwaterfish.com stands out as a reputable source. With a commitment to providing healthy, aquacultured specimens, Saltwaterfish.com ensures that you receive vibrant and well-conditioned Half-Barred Gobies. Their experience, attention to detail, and dedication to customer satisfaction make them a trusted choice for marine enthusiasts.

In Conclusion

The Half-Barred Goby is a captivating addition to saltwater aquariums, offering aesthetic appeal and compatibility with various tank mates. By adhering to the recommended care guidelines and sourcing specimens from reputable suppliers like Saltwaterfish.com, enthusiasts can create a thriving marine ecosystem in their homes.