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Paragobiodon echinocephalus, commonly known as the Panda Goby or Redhead Goby, is a small, charismatic species of coral-dwelling goby. It is notable for its distinctive coloration and its symbiotic relationship with Pocillopora corals. These gobies are typically found nestled within the branches of their host corals, where they find shelter and food. They are territorial within their coral heads and exhibit interesting social behaviors.
Physical Characteristics
- Body shape
- elongated
- Coloration
- The body is typically dark brown to black, often appearing almost velvety. The head is a striking bright red or orange, contrasting sharply with the body. Some individuals may have a lighter, almost white, band or patch behind the head. The fins are generally translucent or dusky.
- Scale type
- ctenoid
- Mouth position
- superior
- Distinctive features
- Bright red/orange head contrasting with a dark body., Small, robust body with a relatively large head., Presence of small, spiny projections on the head (echinocephalus means 'spiny head')., Fused pelvic fins forming a suction cup-like disc.
- Dorsal fin
- Two dorsal fins; the first dorsal fin has 6-7 spines, and the second dorsal fin has 1 spine and 8-9 soft rays. The first dorsal fin is often slightly elevated.
- 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, used for clinging to surfaces.
Identification Tips
Coloration
The most striking feature is the bright red or orange head against a dark, often black or dark brown, body. This 'panda-like' contrast is highly diagnostic.
Host Coral Association
Almost exclusively found living within the branches of Pocillopora corals. If you see a small goby with this coloration in a Pocillopora, it's very likely P. echinocephalus.
Size and Shape
Its small size (up to 3 cm) and robust, somewhat stocky body with a relatively large head are characteristic.
Habitat
- Water type
- saltwater
- Depth
- Typically found in shallow reef environments, from 1 to 15 meters (3 to 50 feet).
- Environment
- Coral reefs, specifically associated with branching Pocillopora corals. They live commensally within the coral branches, using them for shelter, protection from predators, and as a foraging ground.
- Geographic range
- Widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa across to the Central Pacific, including Japan, Australia, and various Pacific islands.
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: Best kept in a species-specific tank or with very peaceful, small invertebrates and fish. Avoid aggressive tank mates or those that might outcompete it for food. Requires a host coral (Pocillopora spp.) to thrive.
- Special requirements: Requires a healthy, established reef aquarium with a suitable host coral (Pocillopora species are preferred). Good water quality and stable parameters are crucial. They are shy and need plenty of hiding places within their coral. Feeding small, frequent meals of meaty foods is essential.
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 $20-$50 USD
- Commercial importance: low
- Taste: Not applicable
- Texture: Not applicable
- Nutritional value: Not applicable
Key Facts
Coral Symbiosisbehavior
Panda Gobies live in a symbiotic relationship with branching Pocillopora corals, providing protection to the coral by nipping at coral predators, while gaining shelter and food from the coral.
Territorial Defendersbehavior
Despite their small size, these gobies are highly territorial within their host coral, actively defending it from other gobies and potential threats.
Sex Changebehavior
Like many gobies, Paragobiodon echinocephalus is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals can change sex from female to male under certain social conditions, often when a dominant male is absent.
Spiny Headinteresting
The species name 'echinocephalus' literally means 'spiny head', referring to the small, spiny projections on their head, which are a distinguishing morphological feature.
Safety Information
Safe- Safety level: safe
- Venomous: No
- Edibility: not recommended
- Handling notes: These are small, delicate fish. Handle with extreme care if necessary, but it's best to avoid direct handling. They are not known to be harmful to humans.
Similar Species
Black-lined Coral Goby
Paragobiodon lacunicolus
P. lacunicolus has a dark body but lacks the distinct bright red head; instead, it often has a dark stripe or blotch behind the eye and a more uniform dark coloration.
Lemon Coral Goby
Gobiodon citrinus
Gobiodon citrinus is typically bright yellow or orange, sometimes with blue markings, and lacks the distinct red head and dark body of P. echinocephalus. It also has a more compressed body shape.
Green Coral Goby
Gobiodon atrangulatus
Gobiodon atrangulatus is typically green to olive-brown with dark vertical bars, and does not exhibit the red head/dark body pattern of P. echinocephalus.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Actinopterygii
- Order
- Gobiiformes
- Family
- Gobiidae
- Genus
- Paragobiodon
- Species
- echinocephalus
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