Sleeper Railway Glider Goby

Valenciennea helsdingenii, commonly known as the Sleeper Railway Glider Goby, is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its distinctive black-and-white striped tail, elongated body, and active sand-sifting behavior. Its striking tail pattern resembles railway tracks, making it a unique visual highlight in any reef aquarium.

Males typically grow slightly larger and may display more vivid coloration or extended fin rays, while females/juveniles tend to be smaller with more subdued markings. They reach about 6 to 7 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 50 gallons, though larger systems are preferred for long-term success and stability.

Provide a deep sandbed for burrowing, ample live rock for hiding and foraging, open swimming space, and a secure lid, as this goby species is highly prone to jumping when startled or during territory shifts. Maintain stable water parameters with salinity around 1.020–1.025, temperature between 72–79°F, and pH levels from 8.1–8.4.

Diet should consist of a variety of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and sinking pellets. Since they sift sand for microfauna, a mature tank with a healthy sandbed can supplement their nutrition.

With proper care, the Sleeper Railway Glider Goby makes a functional and visually striking addition to a reef aquarium, helping to naturally stir and clean the substrate while maintaining a peaceful presence.

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.