Engineer Goby

The Engineer Goby (Pholidichthys leucotaenia) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its unique transformation in appearance as it matures, strong burrow-building behavior, and striking black-and-white banded pattern that changes from juvenile to adult. Despite its name, it is not a true goby but behaves similarly, often tunneling in the sand and rockwork, which can sometimes disturb aquascapes.

Males typically grow slightly larger, with stronger body mass and may display more assertive burrow-guarding behavior, while females and juveniles remain smaller, showing thinner banding and less dominant tendencies.

They reach about 10–12 inches in length as adults and should be housed in aquariums of at least 55–75 gallons, with larger tanks recommended for mature specimens. Provide a deep sandbed for burrowing, stable live rock structures for tunnels and hiding spots, and open swimming areas. A secure lid is strongly recommended, as they may jump if 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, finely chopped meaty foods, copepods, and high-quality pellets or marine carnivore formulas. Engineer Gobies adapt well to prepared foods once established and should be fed regularly to support their growth.

With proper care, the Engineer Goby makes a standout addition to larger reef or fish-only aquariums, admired for its fascinating juvenile-to-adult transformation, industrious burrow construction, and peaceful compatibility with most tankmates.

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.