Yellow Clown Goby

Environment

Minimum volume 50 liters, ideally with branching corals (Acropora, Pocillopora, Stylophora) which serve as shelter and perch. Temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.0-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025 (33-36 g/L). Appreciates a mature aquarium with good water flow and lighting suitable for corals. Live rock décor recommended. Caution: may nip at polyps of certain SPS, especially when underfed.

Feeding

Carnivore. Readily accepts frozen food (brine shrimp, mysis, cyclops) and quality pellets for marine fish. Feed 1 to 2 times daily in small amounts. In reef aquariums, may also feed on micro-organisms and coral mucus.

Health & common diseases

The Yellow Clown Goby is a hardy fish but sensitive to external parasites such as Oodinium (velvet disease) and Ichthyophthirius (white spot), particularly during stress or poor acclimation. Watch for spots, a whitish veil on the body, or scratching behavior against décor. Good water quality, varied diet, and the presence of Acropora (natural host corals) strengthen its immune system. Avoid copper-based treatments which can weaken this small-sized species.

Tips & tankmates

Excellent compatibility with most peaceful fish and invertebrates. Can be kept alone, in pairs, or in small groups if sufficient volume (100 L minimum for a group). Occasional jumper: well-covered aquarium mandatory. Sensitive to copper-based treatments. Do not keep with aggressive or overly large fish. Very suitable for reef beginners thanks to its hardiness and ease of acclimation.

Sources

• FishBase - Gobiodon okinawae
• Reef2Reef - Yellow Clown Goby Care
• LiveAquaria - Yellow Clown Goby