Dracula Goby

The Dracula Goby is a rare and highly sought-after shrimp goby that captivates hobbyists with its dramatic appearance and evocative name. Its slender white body is adorned with reddish-orange markings on the head that resemble dripping fangs or blood streaks, giving rise to its vampiric common name. An elongated first dorsal spine extends well above the body, adding an elegant, almost regal quality to this small fish. Adults reach approximately 3 inches in length.

Like its close relatives in the Stonogobiops genus, the Dracula Goby forms a devoted symbiotic partnership with Alpheid pistol shrimp. The goby stands watch at the burrow entrance with its elongated dorsal ray held high, serving as both a communication signal to its shrimp partner and a territorial display to rival gobies. The shrimp maintains constant physical contact with the goby's tail using its antennae, ready to retreat at the goby's warning signal. This intricate behavior makes the pair one of the hobby's most fascinating displays.

Due to its rarity in the aquarium trade and relatively specialized care requirements, the Dracula Goby commands premium prices when available. It requires a peaceful reef environment with a fine sand substrate, minimal competition for food, and ideally a compatible pistol shrimp partner. This species is shy and may take several weeks to fully acclimate and begin feeding confidently in a new aquarium.