Neon Goby, also known by its scientific name Elacatinus oceanops, is a small fish found in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Coast of North America. It’s often seen in aquariums and is a popular fish.
Neon Gobies play an important role in their natural habitat as cleaner fish, removing parasites from larger fish like the groupers.
Known for being reef-safe, Neon Gobies are compatible with other marine lifeforms in both wild habitats and home aquariums.
Neon Goby Interesting Facts
- Neon Gobies are cleaner fish that remove parasites from larger fish in their natural habitat.
- They form monogamous pairs and can be bred successfully in aquariums.
- These small fish have a striking appearance with a dark blue stripe on a light-colored body.
- Neon Goby thrives in subtropical waters, preferring temperatures between 70°F to 82°F (21°C to 28°C).
Neon Goby Habitat
Neon Goby is found in the Western Central Atlantic region. Its habitat ranges from southern Florida and Texas in the USA to Belize.
This marine fish lives around reefs and is found at depths of 1 to 45 meters (usually 1 to 40 meters). It prefers water temperatures between 70°F to 82°F (21°C to 28°C).
Neon Goby is a subtropical species that inhabits areas between latitudes of 28°N to 16°N and longitudes of 98°W to 61°W.
| Water Temperature: | 70°F to 82°F (21°C to 28°C) |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Neon Goby Physical Characteristics
Size: 2.0 inches (5.0 centimeters)
Neon Goby is a small fish that grows up to 2.0 inches (5.0 centimeters) long. It has 7 to 8 dorsal spines, 10 to 13 dorsal soft rays, 1 anal spine, and 9 to 12 anal soft rays.
Its unique appearance includes a dark blue stripe on a light-colored body and a pale stripe near each eye that doesn’t extend to the snout’s tip.
Neon Goby Reproduction
Neon Gobies mate for life with one partner, which is known as monogamous mating. They do this because they need to (obligate) and also because they prefer it socially.
Neon Gobies have also been bred successfully in captivity.
Neon Goby Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Gobiiformes |
| Family: | Gobiidae |
| Genus: | Elacatinus |
| Scientific Name: | Elacatinus oceanops |
| Also Known As: | Neon Goby |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |