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Gobiodon histrio, commonly known as the Striped Goby or Broad-barred Goby, is a small, charismatic species of coral-dwelling goby. These fish are notable for their vibrant coloration and their close association with branching corals, particularly Acropora species. They exhibit a compressed body shape and a distinctive pattern of vertical stripes or bars, which can vary in intensity and color depending on the individual and its environment. They are often found in pairs or small groups within the coral branches, where they seek shelter and forage for small invertebrates.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- compressed
- Coloration
- Highly variable, typically a base color of green, yellow, or orange, with 4-7 prominent dark vertical bars or stripes across the body. The head may also have similar markings. Fins are often translucent or match the body coloration.
- Scale type
- cycloid
- Mouth position
- superior
- Distinctive features
- Compressed body, Prominent vertical dark bars/stripes, Large, upward-pointing eyes, Fused pelvic fins forming a suction cup-like disc, Absence of scales on the head and nape
- Dorsal fin
- Two dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin has 6 spines, and the second dorsal fin has 1 spine and 8-10 soft rays. The two fins are typically separate.
- Tail fin
- Rounded caudal fin.
- Pectoral fin
- Pectoral fins are relatively large and rounded, with 17-19 rays.
- Distinctive fins
- Pelvic fins are fused into a disc-like structure, characteristic of gobies, which they use to cling to coral branches.
Identification Tips
Body Pattern
Look for the distinct vertical dark bars or stripes on a green, yellow, or orange body. The number and prominence of these bars can help distinguish it from other Gobiodon species.
Habitat Association
Always found nestled within the branches of live branching corals, particularly Acropora. This strong association is a key identifier.
Body Shape
Its compressed, somewhat flattened body is typical for the genus, allowing it to fit snugly between coral branches.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- 1-20 meters (3-65 feet)
- Environment
- Coral reefs, specifically within the branches of live branching corals, predominantly Acropora species. They are obligate coral dwellers.
- Geographic range
- Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa across to the Line Islands, north to southern Japan, and south to Australia and New Caledonia.
Aquarium Information
- Care level: intermediate
- Temperament: peaceful
- Diet: carnivore
- Minimum tank size: 10 gallons
- Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
- pH level: 8.1-8.4
- Hardness: 8-12 dKH
- Compatibility: Generally peaceful with other small, non-aggressive fish. Can be territorial towards conspecifics if not enough space or coral hosts are provided. Best kept singly, in a mated pair, or in a small group if the tank is large enough with ample coral.
- Special requirements: Requires live branching corals (e.g., Acropora, Pocillopora) for shelter and security. A well-established reef aquarium with stable water parameters is essential. They are prone to jumping, so a tight-fitting lid is recommended. Provide a varied diet of small, meaty foods.
Wild Information
- Conservation status: least concern
- Seasonality: Breeds year-round in tropical waters, with peak activity influenced by lunar cycles and water temperature.
- Market price: Varies, typically moderate for aquarium trade
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: Not typically consumed due to small size
- Texture: Not typically consumed due to small size
- Nutritional value: Not typically consumed due to small size
Key Facts
Coral Dwellerbehavior
Gobiodon histrio is an obligate coral dweller, meaning it relies entirely on live branching corals for shelter, protection from predators, and often for spawning sites.
Mucus Secretionbehavior
Like other Gobiodon species, G. histrio can secrete a toxic mucus from its skin when stressed or threatened, which deters predators. This makes them generally unpalatable to many larger fish.
Protogynous Hermaphroditesevolution
These gobies are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change sex to male. This allows for flexible social structures within their coral hosts.
Parental Carebehavior
Both parents typically guard the eggs, which are laid on the branches of their host coral. The male often takes primary responsibility for fanning and cleaning the eggs.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: No specific handling precautions are required beyond standard fish handling practices to minimize stress. They are small and delicate.
Similar Species
Green Clown Goby
Gobiodon atrangulatus
Gobiodon atrangulatus typically has a more uniform green coloration with less prominent or absent vertical bars, or only a few faint dark markings. G. histrio has more distinct and numerous vertical stripes.
Yellow Clown Goby
Gobiodon okinawae
Gobiodon okinawae is uniformly bright yellow and lacks any vertical stripes or bars. G. histrio is characterized by its prominent striped pattern.
Black-lined Coral Goby
Gobiodon rivulatus
Gobiodon rivulatus often has a more mottled or reticulated pattern, or fewer, thicker bars, and can exhibit a wider range of base colors. G. histrio's stripes are generally more defined and numerous.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Gobiiformes
- Family
- Gobiidae
- Genus
- Gobiodon
- Species
- histrio
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