Bullet Goby

The bullet goby is commonly sold as the banded sleeper goby, Amblygobius phalaena. Its barred body and deliberate bottom-foraging behaviour suit a display with open sand and established rockwork, provided its feeding needs are addressed directly.

Offer varied small meaty foods together with algae-based marine preparations. Allow suitable sand for searching and refuge, while supporting rocks securely so digging cannot destabilise them. Do not rely on visible sand sifting as the entire feeding plan; watch the goby consume offered foods and maintain condition.

Choose neighbours that will let it forage without harassment. Other sand-dwelling gobies can compete for territory, and two individuals should not be assumed to form a pair. A secure cover prevents jumping, and corals near the substrate may need protection from displaced sand.