Blackbarred Reefgoby
Priolepis nocturna
A tiny crevice-dweller that disappears into the reef and rarely comes out.
About
The Blackbarred Reefgoby (Priolepis nocturna) is one of those small, secretive fish that rewards patient hobbyists more than casual ones. Spread across a wide stretch of the Indo-Pacific, from the Seychelles and Maldives east to the Marquesas and including the Philippines, this little goby spends its wild life tucked into reef crevices at modest depths. In the aquarium it behaves much the same way, gravitating toward caves, overhangs, and tight spaces whenever it can find them. At under an inch and a half when fully grown, it is genuinely tiny, so a well-decorated tank with plenty of rockwork is not optional. It is what makes this fish feel at home and actually visible. The name hints at its habits; this is not a fish that patrols open water or competes for attention. Because of that reclusive nature and its small size, it sits comfortably in the intermediate care category. Not technically demanding, but not ideal for someone who wants an active centerpiece. Feed it a varied diet that includes small meaty items alongside prepared foods, and give it time to settle in before judging whether it is thriving. A patient keeper will find it genuinely rewarding.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Blackbarred Reefgoby
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Blackbarred Reefgoby get?
- The Blackbarred Reefgoby reaches about 1–1.5" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Blackbarred Reefgoby need?
- A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for the Blackbarred Reefgoby.
- What water parameters does the Blackbarred Reefgoby need?
- The Blackbarred Reefgoby does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 8–8.4.
- Is the Blackbarred Reefgoby aggressive?
- The Blackbarred Reefgoby is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- What does the Blackbarred Reefgoby eat?
- The Blackbarred Reefgoby is an omnivore. It does well on a varied diet of quality flake or pellet plus occasional frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Blackbarred Reefgoby live?
- With good care, the Blackbarred Reefgoby typically lives 4-8 years.
- Is the Blackbarred Reefgoby reef safe?
- The Blackbarred Reefgoby is generally considered reef safe.