Diamond Watchman Goby

Diamond Watchman Goby

Species: Valenciennea puellaris

Origin: Indo-Pacific

Family: Gobiidae

Overview:

The Diamond Watchman Goby, also known as the Orange-Spotted Sleeper Goby, Pretty Prawn Goby, or Maiden Goby, is a peaceful bottom-dwelling species well-regarded for its sand-sifting behavior and subtle beauty. It features a white body with bright orange markings along the head and sides, making it a visually attractive addition to reef and fish-only aquariums alike.

This species thrives in tanks of 30 gallons or more with a deep sand bed and plenty of live rock. It creates shallow burrows to rest and hide, which also helps oxygenate the substrate. The Diamond Goby is generally peaceful toward other tankmates but may become territorial with conspecifics unless introduced as a bonded pair.

Its natural feeding behavior involves sifting sand to extract small invertebrates and food particles. A varied carnivorous diet including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality frozen or prepared carnivore foods should be offered multiple times per day for long-term health.

Care Details:

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Diet: Carnivore (mysis, brine shrimp, blackworms, finely chopped seafood)
• Maximum Size: Up to 6 inches

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72 – 78°F
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025
• dKH: 8 – 12

Available Sizes:

• Small (S): 1 – 2"
• Medium (M): 2 – 3"
• Large (L): 3 – 4"
• Extra Large (XL): 4 – 5"

Important Livestock Notices:

• This fish has not been quarantined.
• We recommend that all new fish are quarantined prior to introduction into your display system.
• Photos are for reference only — the fish you receive will not be the exact specimen pictured. Appearance may vary based on sex, maturity, region, and individual variation.
• All livestock must be drip-acclimated slowly to ensure a safe transition to your aquarium.