Zebra dwarfgoby – Eviota zebrina

Eviota zebrina, commonly known as the Goby, is a small, colorful fish belonging to the Gobiidae family. It is a popular choice for marine aquariums due to its striking appearance and relatively peaceful nature.

Description & Characteristics

Eviota zebrina is a small fish, reaching a maximum size of around 2.5 centimeters. It is characterized by its vibrant, zebra-like stripes, giving it its common name. These stripes are typically a combination of yellow, orange, and black, creating a visually striking pattern. This species has a slender body and relatively large eyes, which are positioned high on its head, allowing it to scan its surroundings effectively.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Goby is commonly found in the tropical regions of the Indo-Pacific. It is a predominantly reef-associated species, often inhabiting shallow coral reefs and rocky areas. Its distribution extends from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden in the west to the Marshall Islands and Tonga in the east. The Goby is typically found in the intertidal zone and shallow waters, with a depth range of up to 20 meters. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water with a moderate current. This species can be found in a range of marine zones, including the neritic zone, which encompasses the shallow waters extending from the shoreline to the edge of the continental shelf.

Taxonomy

The species Eviota zebrina belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Gobiiformes, and Family: Gobiidae. The Gobiidae family is one of the largest and most diverse families of fish, with over 2,000 species found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats worldwide. They are distinguished by their typically small size, fused pelvic fins, and a lack of a swim bladder.

Feeding

The Goby is a carnivorous fish with a diet primarily consisting of small invertebrates. Its feeding habits include consuming brine shrimp nauplii, brine shrimps, Cyclops, flakes, frozen food (large sort), lobster eggs, and Mysis. They are opportunistic feeders, readily taking advantage of any available food source within their range.