The Randall’s Prawn-goby, scientifically known as Amblyeleotris randalli, is a captivating and relatively small species of goby fish. Characterized by its distinct appearance and intriguing symbiotic relationship with shrimp, the Randall’s Prawn-goby has become a popular choice for marine aquariums.
Description & Characteristics
This species can reach a maximum size of 12.0 cm, making it a modestly sized fish. It exhibits a vibrant coloration, often displaying a mix of yellows, oranges, and browns, with a dark stripe running along the body. The body shape is elongated and slender, typical of gobies. The dorsal fin is long and continuous, with a distinctive black spot near the base.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Amblyeleotris randalli prefers a marine environment, particularly in coral reefs and rocky shores. This species is typically found in shallow waters, with a depth range of 1-30 meters. Their distribution encompasses various marine zones, including the Indo-Pacific region, encompassing the western Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean. The Randall’s Prawn-goby is a common sight in these areas, making it a significant component of these marine ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Amblyeleotris randalli belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. This family encompasses a vast array of fish species, characterized by their generally small size and a fused pelvic fin, forming a suction cup-like structure. The Gobiiformes order is known for its diverse and wide-ranging species, found in both marine and freshwater environments.
Feeding
The Amblyeleotris randalli is an opportunistic feeder, primarily consuming zooplankton and small invertebrates. This species can be readily maintained in aquariums, with a diet consisting of brine shrimps, flakes, frozen food (large sort), mysis, schrimps, shrimps, and zooplankton. Their feeding habits contribute to the ecological balance of their habitat, playing an essential role in the food chain.
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