The Catalina Goby is considered one of the easiest marine fish to breed. But most saltwater enthusiasts are more interested in this member of the Gobiidae family for its beautiful coloration and active, yet peaceful, demeanor. Its orange body is reminiscent of late-summer sunsets off the California coasts, which is where native species of Lythrypnus dalli herald. To contrast its soothing orange color, the Catalina Goby also boasts patches of blue on the head and face and lighter vertical blue stripes on the anterior, or front, half of the body. The male Catalina Goby develops a dramatic eyespot on their fan-like dorsal fin.

Native to the deeper and colder ocean waters off the coast of Los Angeles, the Catalina Goby is a temperate fish that prefers cooler water temperatures, especially by typical saltwater standards. Although it will tolerate warmer, tropical water temperatures, the Catalina Goby does best in aquariums with cooler water temperatures. To best recreate natural environmental conditions found near Catalina Island, maintain an aquarium water temperature in the mid-60°F range.

Very striking when kept in small schools, the Catalina Goby will dart in and out of the rockwork and perch on its favorite lookout in the reef aquarium. The Catalina Goby is not usually an aggressive fish, but may quarrel with conspecifics if housed together in a small aquarium. An aquarium of 10 gallons or larger is usually suitable.

In the wild, the Catalina Goby eats small pieces of fish and plant material. In the home aquarium, it will consume almost any prepared foods for carnivores, mysis shrimp, table shrimp, and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp. The Catalina Goby should be fed twice per day.

Quick Stats:
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Water Conditions: 68-75° F, sg 1.020-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12
Max. Size: 2″
Color Form: Blue, Orange, Red
Diet: Carnivore
Origin: USA
Family: Gobiidae

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