Goby

Gobies occupy several different feeding and habitat niches. Some sift sand, some perch near a burrow, and some clean other fish. Start by choosing the behaviour that suits your aquarium, then compare individual species rather than treating all gobies as interchangeable bottom dwellers.

For a burrowing species, consider the substrate and secure shelter it will use. A sand sifter needs a feeding plan that supports its foraging behaviour; a cleaner goby still needs food even when it visits other fish. Provide suitably sized foods where the selected goby can reach them.

Check adult size and compatibility with similar-looking fish. Two gobies can compete over territory even when both are described as peaceful. If your aim is a goby-and-shrimp association, confirm the species involved before ordering. Share your existing bottom-dwelling fish, substrate layout, and feeding routine so we can help you compare suitable options.