White Sleeper Goby -

The White Sleeper Goby, scientifically known as Valenciennea puellaris, is a charming and active fish species belonging to the Gobiidae family. These gobies are popular among marine aquarium enthusiasts for their intriguing behavior and fascinating appearance.

Here are some key characteristics and care considerations for the White Sleeper Goby:

**1. Appearance:** White Sleeper Gobies are relatively small, reaching an average size of about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 centimeters). They have elongated, slender bodies with a beautiful white or cream-colored base color. Darker, horizontal bands and spots adorn their bodies, giving them an eye-catching and unique appearance. They also have distinctive elongated dorsal fin rays.

**2. Behavior:** White Sleeper Gobies are known for their constant activity and entertaining behaviors. They are burrowers by nature and will often dig tunnels in the substrate, creating intricate and interconnected burrows. These burrows serve as hiding places and shelters for the goby. They spend a significant amount of time sifting through the substrate in search of tiny invertebrates and detritus, which makes them excellent for maintaining the cleanliness of the sand bed in a reef tank.

**3. Tank Setup:** To provide suitable care for White Sleeper Gobies, it's essential to have a well-established marine aquarium. The tank should have a sandy substrate of at least 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) in depth to allow for burrowing. Live rock structures and caves can also provide additional hiding spots and enrichment. These gobies are generally peaceful and can be kept in a community reef tank with other non-aggressive species.

**4. Water Parameters:** Maintain stable water parameters with a temperature range of 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C), a pH level of 8.1 to 8.4, and a specific gravity of 1.020 to 1.025. Regular water changes are essential to ensure water quality.

**5. Feeding:** White Sleeper Gobies are carnivorous and feed primarily on small invertebrates and zooplankton. In an aquarium, they can be fed a varied diet that includes high-quality frozen foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and enriched Artemia. They may also accept small pellet or flake foods.

**6. Compatibility:** These gobies are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tankmates, but they may become territorial with their own kind. It's advisable to keep only one White Sleeper Goby per tank unless you have a very large aquarium.

White Sleeper Gobies are delightful additions to marine aquariums, known for their engaging behaviors and aesthetic appeal. Their burrowing activity and substrate sifting contribute to the overall health and cleanliness of a reef tank. When provided with a suitable environment and diet, these gobies can thrive and become a fascinating part of your aquatic community.