Crested Oyster Goby

The Crested Oyster Goby (Cryptocentroides gobioides) is a peaceful species that is generally considered reef-safe with caution, admired for its elongated body, muted brown to gray coloration with subtle mottling, and the distinct head crest that gives it a unique appearance. It is often associated with oyster beds and sheltered coastal habitats, making it a fascinating and unusual aquarium resident.

Males typically grow slightly larger, with a more developed crest and may display stronger territorial or courtship behaviors, while females and juveniles remain smaller, with less pronounced crests and softer markings.

They reach about 4–5 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons. Provide a fine sandbed for burrowing, live rock with plenty of crevices and hiding spots, and open swimming areas. A secure lid is strongly recommended, as gobies are known to jump when startled.

Maintain stable water parameters: salinity around 1.020–1.025, temperature between 72–79°F, and pH between 8.1–8.4.

Their diet should consist of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped meaty foods, algae-based foods, and high-quality sinking pellets. They are opportunistic feeders and will graze both from the substrate and the water column.

With proper care, the Crested Oyster Goby makes a standout addition to aquariums, valued for its unusual crest, peaceful nature, and distinctive link to oyster reef habitats.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.