Banded Sleeper Goby

About this fish

Banded Sleeper Goby is a saltwater goby sold as Amblygobius phalaena. In a home reef or fish tank, this goby is typically kept for its peaceful presence and interesting behavior such as perching on rock or corals, sifting the sand, and (often) using a burrow—sometimes alongside compatible shrimp companions. As a bottom-dwelling fish, it helps add active movement to the lower areas of the aquarium while following a diet suited to small frozen foods and natural microfauna.

Features:

• Peaceful temperament that’s generally suitable for many community reef setups
• Active behavior: may perch on rocks or corals, and is commonly observed working over the sand bed
• Sand-sifting habits make a mature, deeper sand bed helpful for natural foraging
• May share a burrow with pistol shrimp in appropriate setups
• Eats small foods; small frozen items such as mysis and copepods are practical options
• Often benefits from feeding routines that can support natural-style grazing behaviors
• Requires a tight lid, since gobies can be jumpers

Specifications:

• Verified scientific name: Amblygobius phalaena
• Aquarium type: Saltwater
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet (general guidance): Small frozen foods such as mysis and copepods
• Feeding frequency (general guidance): Once or twice daily
• Sand bed guidance (general): Sand-sifting behavior is supported by a deep, mature sand bed
• Jump risk: Use a tight lid
• Acclimation: Acclimate slowly and provide a quiet place to settle