Pink Spotted Watchman

Rinopirate · Jul 17, 2015

I am setting up a new aquarium. I thought it would be fun to get my girlfriend involved and wanted to let her pick some of the fish in the reef. She has her heart and mind completely set on a pink spotted watchman goby (Cryptocentrus leptocephalus.) I know that this guy gets a little bigger than the yellow watchman (of which I have owned before) but I have also heard that it can be more aggressive/territorial. I was planning on hiding pvc piping throughout the tank to maybe give him his own hiding spots but I was wondering if anyone owns one and could give me some advice on these guys. Also if they have paired up their Gogy with a shrimp.

Rinopirate · Jul 17, 2015

Rinopirate said:
I am setting up a new aquarium. I thought it would be fun to get my girlfriend involved and wanted to let her pick some of the fish in the reef. She has her heart and mind completely set on a pink spotted watchman goby (Cryptocentrus leptocephalus.) I know that this guy gets a little bigger than the yellow watchman (of which I have owned before) but I have also heard that it can be more aggressive/territorial. I was planning on hiding pvc piping throughout the tank to maybe give him his own hiding spots but I was wondering if anyone owns one and could give me some advice on these guys. Also if they have paired up their Gogy with a shrimp.

*Goby

shawnriv · Jul 20, 2015

Rinopirate said:
I am setting up a new aquarium. I thought it would be fun to get my girlfriend involved and wanted to let her pick some of the fish in the reef. She has her heart and mind completely set on a pink spotted watchman goby (Cryptocentrus leptocephalus.) I know that this guy gets a little bigger than the yellow watchman (of which I have owned before) but I have also heard that it can be more aggressive/territorial. I was planning on hiding pvc piping throughout the tank to maybe give him his own hiding spots but I was wondering if anyone owns one and could give me some advice on these guys. Also if they have paired up their Gogy with a shrimp.

I personally love the Pink Spotted Goby. I believe it's the best looking Goby out of the bunch. But I've heard mixed reviews about them. One of the best things about them is they will not create sandstorms like the Diamond Goby and they are less territorial. Although...I've heard once before that they will eat any shrimps in the tank. Nevertheless, a Pink Spotted will be on my fish list for my next build. What size will be your new tank?

mikey_p · Jul 20, 2015

I have one in my 220g tank now he's territorial as can be also goes after my hand when I messing inside the tank..I tried to pair him up with a pistol shrimp but I think he ate him not sure tho cool fish none the less

300bowler · Jul 21, 2015

I currently have one in my 125 gallon. Love the personality of this guy. Mine is not territorial at all. Just swims all around the tank and gets along with everyone. Great fish and beautiful IMO.

megisawesome06 · Jul 21, 2015

I have one in my 100g...he's my favorite! He watches me as much as I watch him. He hasn't been territorial at all. I guess it all depends on the fish.
I've heard it's best paired up with a pistol shrimp. I haven't tried it myself. I'm going to try for a red banded one.
Every once in a while, he'll charge my Lawnmower Blenny if he gets too close, but everyone pretty much knows where his area is.
I actually have 2. One is about 5" and the other is about 1-2". The little one stays in its cave all day. But my big one is always watching. [emoji102]

Rinopirate · Jul 21, 2015

Alright cool tanks guys, I was going to start him in a 29 gallon and move him as he gets bigger, I've been told that's okay thoughts? Or should I just stick to my roots with a yellow then

eatbreakfast · Jul 22, 2015

Rinopirate said:
Alright cool tanks guys, I was going to start him in a 29 gallon and move him as he gets bigger, I've been told that's okay thoughts? Or should I just stick to my roots with a yellow then

He should be fine in a 29g, they are pretty "site oriented".

I have kept them in the past and they were quite peaceful, even allowing other species of watchman goby to share his burrow.

Rinopirate · Jul 22, 2015

Cool thanks! We'll I'll keep looking them up then, but it looks more and more likely I'll get one then

Homer Allman · Jul 25, 2015

Mine is in a 125 currently. He picks a spot and doesn't stray far. Mine is very shy and I do not see him a lot, except on occasional feedings. I have never really watched late at night to see if he's doing anything. In my tank he's a boring fish that I do not see often.

Chantelle · Jul 25, 2015

I have one aptly named grumpy goby Lol. I added him, a pistol shrimp, 4 sexy shrimp and a cardinal all at the same time into a 29g tank. It took approximately 2 months for him and the pistol to pair up. He leaves his original tank mates be, but is very territorial and won't accept any new additions. He also gets a little feisty at feeding time. With that said he is one of my favorites and would do well if he is added after all your other stock.