Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby (Cryptocentrus cinctus)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivorous
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby (Cryptocentrus cinctus) – Comprehensive Guide

Habitat

The Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby, also known as the Yellow Prawn Goby, is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea and the Great Barrier Reef. It can be found inhabiting shallow lagoons, sandy bottoms, and rubble areas near coral reefs.

Reef Safe

Yes, the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby is considered reef safe. It will not harm corals or other invertebrates in the aquarium. In fact, it can form a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimps, where the shrimp digs and maintains a burrow, providing the goby with protection, while the goby keeps a watchful eye for any potential threats.

Size

The Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby can reach a maximum size of around 3 inches in captivity.

Temperament

This species is generally peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tankmates. It spends most of its time near its burrow and will often be seen perched on a rock or sand bed, keeping a lookout for food and potential threats.

Sexual Dimorphism

There are no noticeable differences in appearance between males and females of the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby species.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby in a well-maintained saltwater aquarium is around 3-5 years, although with proper care, some individuals have been known to live longer.

Diet in Aquariums

As a carnivorous species, the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby feeds on small crustaceans and other meaty foods in the wild. In captivity, it can be fed a varied diet consisting of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp. It is recommended to feed multiple small meals throughout the day to mimic its natural feeding habits.

Aquascaping Recommendations

The Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby prefers a sandy substrate with plenty of rocks and caves to create hiding spots and potential burrows. Live rock can provide additional filtration and hiding places for both the goby and its potential pistol shrimp companion.

Availability as Captive Bred

The Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby is available as captive-bred individuals in some cases. However, it is more commonly found as wild-caught specimens in the aquarium trade. Captive-bred individuals can adapt more easily to the captive environment and may have a higher chance of survival.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

The Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby is generally compatible with a wide range of peaceful tankmates, including other small fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when selecting tankmates to ensure they have similar water parameter requirements and are not aggressive or territorial.

Five specific tankmates that can be good choices for the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby are:

1. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) – They have similar care requirements and can form a symbiotic relationship with the goby.
2. Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) – Peaceful and adds visual interest to the tank.
3. Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica) – Adds vibrant coloration and is compatible with the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby.
4. Yasha Hase Shrimp Goby (Stonogobiops yasha) – Can form a symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimps and adds diversity to the tank.
5. Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis) – Can provide cleaning services to both the goby and other tankmates.

Other Common Names

The Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby is also known by other common names such as Yellow Prawn Goby, Yellow Shrimpgoby, and Yellow Shrimp Goby.

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Popular Questions about the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby (Cryptocentrus cinctus)

1. What is the recommended tank size for the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby?

The minimum tank size recommended for the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby is 20 gallons. Providing ample swimming space and suitable hiding spots is essential for their well-being.

2. Can the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby be kept in a reef tank?

Yes, the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby is considered reef safe and can be kept in a reef tank without harming corals or other invertebrates.

3. How long do Yellow Watchman Shrimpgobies typically live?

The average lifespan of the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby in captivity is around 3-5 years, although with proper care, they can live longer.

4. What should I feed my Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby in the aquarium?

The Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby is a carnivorous species and can be fed a varied diet consisting of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp.

5. Can the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby be kept with aggressive tankmates?

It is generally not recommended to keep the Yellow Watchman Shrimpgoby with aggressive tankmates, as it is a peaceful species. It’s best to choose compatible and non-territorial tankmates to ensure a harmonious aquarium environment.