Valenciennea puellaris (Diamond Goby)

Diamond Goby

Valenciennea puellaris

• Difficulty level: Moderate (depends on the baccalaureate).
• Adult size: Up to 15-20 cm.
• Temperament: Peaceful, but territorial towards other gobies of its own species, unless they form an established pair.
• Minimum volume: 120 liters (30 gallons) is a minimum, but a 200-liter (50-gallon) or larger container is recommended.

• Temperature: 24-28 °C.
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025.
• pH: 8.1–8.4.
• Decor: A sandy substrate at least 5 to 7 cm deep is essential, as it builds burrows there to take refuge.
• Compatibility with invertebrates: Generally safe for reefs, but it may cover some corals with sand.
• Lid: A lid is required to prevent this jumping fish from escaping.

• Type: Carnivore, feeding on small invertebrates in the sand.
• Diet: It constantly sifts through the sand. In an aquarium, it needs supplemental feeding consisting of enriched frozen meaty foods, such as mysis and brine shrimp.
• Frequency: 2 to 3 times per day.
• Important: Ensure the goby is feeding, especially in new tanks where the substrate fauna may be insufficient. A tank established with a good amount of live sand is ideal.

• Compatibility: Can be kept with other peaceful fish. If you wish to keep several, it is best to introduce an established pair.
• Behavior: It can displace large amounts of sand, thus altering the substrate of the aquarium. Ensure that rocks are placed directly on the glass to prevent them from collapsing.