Catalina Goby

The Catalina Goby is a spectacularly colorful cold-water species native to the rocky reefs and kelp forests off the coast of southern California and the Gulf of California. Its brilliant red-orange body is crossed by several vivid electric-blue vertical bars, creating one of the most striking color patterns found in any goby species. Despite reaching only about 2 inches in length, this tiny fish commands attention with its jewel-like appearance.

This species is a temperate-water fish that naturally inhabits waters ranging from 60 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the single most important factor in its care, and unfortunately, it is frequently sold to unsuspecting hobbyists for tropical reef tanks where it will overheat and perish within weeks to months. Keeping the Catalina Goby at tropical temperatures of 78-80 degrees drastically shortens its lifespan and is considered inhumane. A dedicated chiller is almost always required.

When kept in an appropriate cool-water setup, the Catalina Goby is a hardy and engaging aquarium resident. It perches on rocky outcrops and ledges, often hovering just above the substrate. It does well in small groups in larger tanks. This species has a naturally short lifespan of only 1 to 2 years, even under ideal conditions, which is typical for small gobiid fishes. A cold-water biotope aquarium featuring California marine life is the ideal setting for this beautiful goby.