Hector's Goby

Hector's Goby is a small, beautifully patterned species that has earned a devoted following among reef aquarists for its attractive appearance, peaceful nature, and beneficial algae-grazing behavior. Its slender body features alternating horizontal stripes of dark brown to black and bright golden-yellow that run from head to tail, creating a bold and distinctive pattern. The belly often displays a vivid orange-red coloration that adds a warm accent. Adults reach about 2 inches in length.

Unlike many gobies that are strictly carnivorous, Hector's Goby is primarily herbivorous, spending much of its day grazing on filamentous algae and microalgae growing on rocks, sand, and glass surfaces. This natural grazing behavior provides a genuine maintenance benefit to the aquarium by helping to control nuisance algae growth. The goby supplements its algae diet with small invertebrates and detritus found in the substrate.

This is an excellent beginner-friendly species that thrives in nano reef aquariums of 10 gallons or more. It is completely reef-safe, poses no threat to corals or invertebrates, and has a calm, unobtrusive personality. Hector's Goby does well singly, in pairs, or in small groups in larger tanks. It prefers tanks with established algae growth on live rock and benefits from occasional supplementation with vegetable-based prepared foods.