The Black-spotted Pygmy-goby, Headspot Dwarfgoby, Headspot Eviota, Melasma Pygmy Goby (Eviota melasma) is a small, striking species of goby found in the Indo-Pacific region. Its name alludes to the distinctive black spot adorning its head, a feature that sets it apart from other pygmy gobies. This goby is a popular choice for reef aquariums due to its vibrant colors, peaceful nature, and relatively small size.
Description & Characteristics
The Eviota melasma, also known as the Black-spotted Pygmy-goby, Headspot Dwarfgoby, Headspot Eviota, Melasma Pygmy Goby, is a small goby, reaching a maximum size of 3.0 cm. Its body is typically a bright orange to yellow color with a distinctive black spot on its head. This spot can vary in size and intensity, but it remains a defining characteristic. The pectoral fins are clear, while the dorsal and anal fins are edged with a black margin. Juveniles may exhibit a less pronounced black spot and a slightly darker body coloration.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Black-spotted Pygmy-goby, Headspot Dwarfgoby, Headspot Eviota, Melasma Pygmy Goby (Eviota melasma) is found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its range extends from the Red Sea and the East African coast to the Pacific Ocean, including areas like Indonesia, Fiji, and the Philippines. This species is a common inhabitant of coral reefs, particularly in areas with high water clarity and strong currents. They prefer shallow water habitats, typically residing in depths ranging from 1 to 15 meters.
Taxonomy
The species Eviota melasma belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. This classification places it within the large and diverse group of gobies, known for their small size, often brightly colored bodies, and a variety of intriguing adaptations.
Feeding
The Black-spotted Pygmy-goby, Headspot Dwarfgoby, Headspot Eviota, Melasma Pygmy Goby (Eviota melasma) is a carnivore, feeding primarily on small invertebrates. Its diet consists of a variety of organisms, including: amphipods, brine shrimp nauplii, brine shrimps, copepods, cyclops, decapods, flakes, lobster eggs, and zooplankton. In a reef aquarium environment, this goby can be easily maintained with a diet of commercially available flakes and frozen foods.
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