Link Goby

The Link Goby is an attractive sand-sifting species that combines practical substrate maintenance with appealing coloration. Growing to about 4 inches, it features a cream to light tan body adorned with a chain-like pattern of dark brown spots and bars along its flanks, interspersed with subtle blue and orange highlights on the fins. This distinctive chain-link pattern gives the species its common name and makes it one of the more visually appealing Amblygobius gobies.

Like its relatives in the Amblygobius genus, the Link Goby is a dedicated sand sifter that methodically processes mouthfuls of substrate to extract tiny invertebrates, algae, and organic detritus. This behavior provides excellent natural maintenance of the sand bed, keeping it clean, aerated, and free of nuisance organisms. The species is moderately sized between the smaller Buan Sand Goby and the larger Dragon Goby, making it a versatile choice for medium-sized reef aquariums.

Captive-bred Link Gobies are available and adapt more readily to aquarium life than wild-caught specimens. This peaceful species completely ignores corals and invertebrates, focusing its attention entirely on the substrate. A fine sand bed of at least 2 inches depth is essential, and the tank should be covered as this species is known to jump when startled.