Yellow Rose (Antenna) Goby

The Yellow Rose Goby, also known as the Yellow Rose Goby (Antenna Goby), scientifically named Stonogobiops xanthorhinica, is a captivating and colorful marine fish native to the Indo-Pacific region. This small and peaceful species is favored by saltwater aquarium enthusiasts for its striking appearance and interesting behavior. Here's what you need to know about the Yellow Rose Goby:

1. **Appearance:** Yellow Rose Gobies feature a slender, elongated body with a bright yellow coloration that's sure to catch the eye. They have a distinctive black "rose-like" marking with a yellow center, located just behind their eyes. This unique marking adds to their charm and gives them their common name.

2. **Behavior:** Yellow Rose Gobies are known for their fascinating symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp. They share burrows with these shrimp, where both species benefit from each other's presence. The gobies act as lookout guards while the shrimp excavate and maintain the burrow. This cooperative behavior makes them a popular choice for reef aquariums.

3. **Tank Setup:** To recreate their natural habitat, provide Yellow Rose Gobies with a reef aquarium that includes live rock, sand substrate, and ample hiding places. They appreciate burrows created by pistol shrimp or other suitable structures. These gobies are relatively small, growing to around 2 inches (5 centimeters) in length, so a smaller tank is suitable for them.

4. **Feeding:** Yellow Rose Gobies are carnivorous and primarily feed on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, they can be offered a diet of high-quality frozen and live foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and other small marine invertebrates. Providing a varied diet is essential for their health and vibrancy.

5. **Compatibility:** Yellow Rose Gobies are peaceful fish and generally get along well with other non-aggressive tankmates. They can coexist with a variety of reef-safe fish and invertebrates, making them a suitable addition to a community reef tank.

6. **Water Parameters:** Maintain stable water parameters with a temperature range of 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C), a pH level of 8.1 to 8.4, and a specific gravity of 1.020 to 1.025. Regular water changes are vital to keep water quality optimal.

7. **Breeding:** Breeding Yellow Rose Gobies in captivity can be challenging due to their symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp. In the wild, these gobies lay their eggs in the burrow, and the shrimp guard and aerate them. Replicating this behavior in a home aquarium can be complex.

The Yellow Rose Goby's striking appearance and symbiotic relationship with pistol shrimp make it a unique and captivating addition to a reef aquarium. As with all marine fish, providing them with a suitable environment and a proper diet is essential for their well-being and longevity in captivity.