I see that Biota has them, and lists them as a sand sifter. Do they sift sand like a diamond goby (sand storms, plies everywhere, burying corals) or are the more laid back and stick closer to the sand? I’m not finding much on them other than what Biota has listed on them.
Do you mind if I ask what are you looking for in the fish? Expectations? Purchase it because you like it or for some form of utility?
I had one in my 210 gallon mixed reef. It is not like a diamond goby or similar larger sand sifters but it does sift sand to forage. They are small so will take smaller mouthfuls which is probably obvious. They will move a bit, scoop up some, sift, then move on. They do not scoop it, swim up in the water column, release, then pick off food as it falls. I have never noticed a mound or mounds nor did I notice any corals covered. To be honest, it was also not something I was concerned with. I purchased the fish because I wanted it, not for utility. So honestly wasn't worried if a coral got sand on it.
I did not see mine eat prepared food. I did see it sift pretty much all day long. It would not be uncommon for me not to see it for a couple of days as it worked in areas not visible. Next day I would see it. Oddly enough it was one of the fish most often looked for along with Biota's Upside Down goby by family members.
They are, in both my opinion, and experience, a reef friendly fish. I did read on this forum someone reporting theirs was mean, hostile, and aggressive towards other fish. I honestly can't see that based on my experience. Price point - a good deal. Package it up with a coral purchase (I think they have a 4 pack of Acropora now for 100 bucks which is a steal in my opinion) and you are set.
