Randalls Goby - Amblyeleotris randalli

Randalls Goby (Amblyeleotris randalli)

The Randalls Goby is a peaceful and attractive marine goby recognised for its pale body, distinctive orange-red banding and delicate markings. Best known for forming a fascinating symbiotic relationship with suitable pistol shrimp, it makes an excellent addition to mature reef and peaceful community aquariums. A soft sandy substrate, secure rockwork and calm tankmates will allow this burrow-dwelling species to display its natural behaviour.

Common Name:
Randalls Goby, Randall's Shrimp Goby

Scientific Name (Latin):
Amblyeleotris randalli

Maximum Size:
Approximately 9–10 cm

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
The Randalls Goby occurs in tropical Indo-Pacific reef environments and is typically associated with sandy and rubble-covered areas close to coral reefs and rocky structure.

It naturally occupies burrows and frequently forms a partnership with suitable pistol shrimp, with the shrimp maintaining the burrow while the goby watches for potential threats.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Nitrate: Low and stable
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

Temperament:
Peaceful

The Randalls Goby is a generally peaceful species that is well suited to community reef aquariums.

It may show territorial behaviour towards similar burrow-dwelling gobies, particularly when aquarium space or suitable burrowing areas are limited.

Diet:
Carnivore

The Randalls Goby naturally feeds on small crustaceans and other tiny marine organisms.

In the aquarium, offer a varied diet including frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped prawn, copepods and quality small marine pellets.

Regular small feedings are beneficial, particularly while the fish is becoming established.

Minimum Tank Size:
Approximately 100 litres

A suitable sandbed, secure rockwork and adequate territory are more important than aquarium volume alone.

Behaviour & Activity:
The Randalls Goby spends much of its time close to the entrance of its burrow, watching the surrounding aquarium and retreating quickly when threatened.

When paired with a compatible pistol shrimp, the two species may form a fascinating partnership. The shrimp excavates and maintains their shared burrow while the goby acts as a lookout.

Once settled, the goby can become increasingly confident and visible during feeding and quieter periods.

Reef Safe:
Reef Safe

The Randalls Goby is generally considered reef safe and does not normally damage healthy corals, clams or established ornamental invertebrates.

It is particularly well suited to peaceful mixed reef aquariums.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Provide a soft sandy substrate with small pieces of rubble to encourage natural burrow construction.

Rockwork should be positioned securely on a stable base so that burrowing activity cannot undermine the aquascape.

A compatible pistol shrimp is not essential, but pairing the goby with one can encourage particularly interesting natural behaviour.

Avoid aggressive or highly territorial tankmates that may prevent the goby from leaving its burrow or feeding successfully.

A tightly fitted aquarium lid is strongly recommended, as gobies can jump when frightened or newly introduced.

Careful acclimation, stable water chemistry and regular feeding are important for long-term success.

Suitable for:
Beginner to Intermediate

Availability:
Regularly available

All images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.