Eyebar Sand-Sifting Goldspot Goby

The Eyebar Sand-Sifting Goldspot Goby (Gnatholepis thompsoni) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its distinctive gold spots, striking black “eyebar” markings near the eyes, slender body, and active sand-sifting behavior. Males typically show slightly brighter gold coloration and more defined markings, while females/juveniles have subtler coloration and smaller size. They reach about 3–4 inches and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

Provide a deep sandbed for natural sand-sifting, live rock for shelter, ample hiding spots, and open swimming space, stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid since many gobies can jump. Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, finely crushed pellets, and algae-based foods, and with proper care this fish makes a fascinating and functional addition to marine aquariums, particularly those with sandy substrates.

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.