Citron Clown Goby (Gobiodon Citrinus)

Species Name : Gobiodon Citrinus

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Blue, Tan, Yellow

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 2»

Origin : Africa, Fiji, Indonesia, Maldives

Family : Gobiidae

Minimum Tank Size : 10 gallons

The Citron Clown Goby (Gobiodon Citrinus), also known as the Citron or Citrin Goby, is common within the reefs of Sri Lanka and the Coral Sea. They are also known as "Poison Gobies" because their body secretes a noxious mucous as defense against predators.

They are a small yellow fish with blue vertical lines around the eyes and gills, and a blue horizontal line along the dorsal fin. Their body color can vary between dark brown and pale yellow. Maximum length is approximately 2 inches.

A generally peaceful Goby that will spend its time in and around the live rock and will perch on ledges to survey its surroundings. It requires a 10 gallon or larger aquarium and prefers branched corals, often resting on them for hours at a time. Clown gobies are not prone to jumping from open top aquaria.

It will rarely become aggressive towards other fish, but will fight with its own kind in smaller tanks. It is best if it is kept with other docile species. They are a peaceful fish that makes a wonderful addition to a reef aquarium containing colonies of polyp coral and other soft corals, as they enjoy swimming and hiding amongst the polyps. Avoid keeping with large fish that may prey on the gobies.

It is common for clown gobies to spawn in an aquarium. Caution should be exercised if the aquarium contains Acropora sp. or similar SPS corals. They will lay their eggs on the underside of the coral's branch, which will cause tissue recession in that area of the coral.

The Citrinis Clown Goby feeds on the mucous polyps of Acropora sp. in the wild and is considered reef safe but will nip at the polyps or bases of Acropora sp. and possibly other SPS corals. If the SPS dominated aquarium is not heavily stocked with very mature colonies these fish may severely damage Acropora sp. in these displays.

Clown Gobies are primarily carnivores and their diet should include plenty of high quality meaty items, marine algae, Spirulina, and frozen Mysis shrimp. It is preferable to feed at least twice a day. Frozen food is best, however in time they may learn to eat dry foods. Spot feeding is suggested, if possible, to ensure enough food reaches them. 

Size: Small: 1/2" to 3/4"; Medium: 3/4" to 1-1/4" ; Large: 1-1/4" to 2"