Red Head Goby: The Vivid & Hardy Nano Cleaner
The Red Head Goby (Elacatinus puncticulatus), also known as the Redhead Goby or Red Cap Goby, is a colorful and highly sought-after addition for any peaceful reef or nano aquarium. This stunning goby features a bright, unmistakable red head, often accented with vibrant blue or gold markings, contrasting sharply with its translucent, pale body which is marked with fine, dark spots.
Hailing from the Eastern Pacific, this species is a member of the cleaner goby family. It may set up a cleaning station on rockwork, offering its services to tank mates by picking off parasites. The Red Head Goby is Peaceful and will not harm corals or invertebrates.
| Specifications |
|---|
| Scientific Name: Elacatinus puncticulatus |
| Common Names: Redhead Goby, Red Cap Goby |
| Origin: Eastern Pacific |
| Size: Up to 3 cm (1.2 inches) |
| Temperament: Peaceful |
| Compatibility: Suitable for reef and nano tanks with peaceful fish |
| Behavior: Establishes cleaning stations on rockwork |
FAQ
What kind of environment does the Red Head Goby prefer?
The Red Head Goby thrives in a well-maintained reef or nano aquarium with stable water parameters and plenty of rockwork for it to establish a cleaning station.
Does the Red Head Goby harm corals or invertebrates?
No, the Red Head Goby is peaceful and does not harm corals or invertebrates. It primarily targets parasites on other fish.
How long does it take for a Red Head Goby to establish a cleaning station?
It may take a few weeks for the goby to settle and begin setting up a cleaning station on rockwork.
Brian Walker –
Added a Red Head Goby to my 10-gallon reef tank and it’s been thriving. The bright red head stands out and it’s been actively cleaning other fish. No aggression, no damage to corals. A great addition for a peaceful nano setup.
Nathan Bond –
The goby arrived healthy and has been active since day one. It’s been cleaning small parasites off my tang. I appreciate the vibrant color and its calm behavior. A little shy at first but now it’s confident.
Katherine MacLeod –
Perfect for a small tank. It doesn’t stress other fish and helps keep them parasite-free. The blue and gold markings are striking. I’ve kept it for over three months and it’s still active.