Saddled Watchman Goby Care Guide
Cryptocentrus leucostictus is a Western Pacific marine shrimp goby that shares a burrow with symbiotic alpheid pistol shrimp.
Overview
Cryptocentrus leucostictus (Gunther, 1872) is a marine shrimp goby from the tropical Western Pacific. According to FishBase its range is reported to extend to the Andaman Sea and Samoa. It reaches a maximum standard length of about 7.5 cm and lives in a burrow shared with symbiotic alpheid (pistol) shrimps.
Taxonomy
- Family: Gobiidae
- Genus: Cryptocentrus
- Scientific name: Cryptocentrus leucostictus
- Described by Gunther in 1872
Habitat
It is a reef-associated species found on open sand bottoms of clear seaward reefs and in lagoons, over coarse sand and fine rubble at depths of about 2 to 25 m. The genus Cryptocentrus is native to tropical marine waters of the Indian and Pacific oceans.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness: 8-12 °dKH
- Lifespan: 4-8 years
Diet
Cryptocentrus leucostictus is a carnivore with a trophic level of about 3.3. In captivity it accepts meaty marine foods such as enriched brine shrimp, mysis and finely chopped seafood, offered around twice daily.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful, bottom-dwelling reef-safe goby. It is best known for its symbiotic partnership with alpheid pistol shrimp, which excavate and maintain the shared burrow while the goby acts as a lookout. Suitable companions include clownfish, cardinalfish and tangs; aggressive predators such as lionfish should be avoided.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 27 August 2020, per FishBase).