Care
The White Tiger Goby, sometimes referred to as the Black barred Reef Goby or Circus Goby, is known from small caves and crevices amongst coral reefs, at depths of up to 30m(98ft). This nocturnal species flourishes in a reef environment, but it absolutely must be provided with plenty of dimly lit hidey holes and overhangs among the live rock. These peaceful little gobies should only be kept alongside other fish of similar size and temperament, otherwise, they may not feel confident enough to come out and feed. This is a fascinating species to observe; for much of the time, it will be found perched in its preferred cave with its oversized, butterfly-like pectoral fins stretched wide (looking for all the world like a miniature lionfish when viewed head-on!), often resting completely upside down; then at feeding time, it will dart out to grab morsels of food and quickly return to its bolt hole. The White Tiger Goby is an ideal species for the smaller reef aquarium, and you are likely to see much more of this fish at closer quarters. It is best to keep only one per tank unless you can acquire a compatible, mated pair. However, groups of 5 or more may be kept in larger tanks where there is more space for them to establish their territories (add all specimens simultaneously) although then you may not get to glimpse them nearly as often as you would a single specimen/pair in a small tank. This is a species that unfortunately does not always look its best in dealer's tanks, as it habitually tries to shy away from bright light and in doing so often holds its beautiful fins close to its body, so it is all too easily overlooked. These fish may be a little more complex to view compared to some species, because of their cryptic nature and need for shady hideaways, but when acclimatized and settled into their preferred environment, these are charming little fish that will captivate with their quirky personalities.
Feeding
Easy to feed, will accept most foods offered e.g. Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, finely chopped krill/prawns etc. Feed small amounts 3 times per day, target feeding if necessary.
Breeding
White Tiger Gobies have spawned in the home aquarium, but raising the minuscule larvae has proved extremely challenging as they have such a microscopic gape and it can be hard to find foods small enough for them to take. This species would make an excellent breeding project for the serious hobbyist who is willing to set up a dedicated breeding aquarium and have constant cultures of tiny foodstuffs to try. Spawns can be quite large, numbering up to 1500 tiny, adhesive, ovoid-shaped eggs, and these are typically deposited safely on the roof or sides of a small crevice. Once the eggs have been laid/fertilized, the male fish will chase the female away and guard/fans the eggs until they hatch.
