IntermediatePeacefulReef Safe

Yasha Goby

Stonogobiops yasha

Family: Gobiidae · Gobies

Also known as: Yasha White Ray Shrimp Goby, Yasha Haze Goby

Max Size

2.5"

Min Tank

10 gal

Lifespan

3-5 years

Origin

Western Pacific, Japan

Diet

Carnivore

Swims

Bottom

About

The Yasha Goby is a strikingly beautiful and highly sought-after shrimp goby species prized for its elegant appearance and fascinating symbiotic behavior with pistol shrimp. Its slender white body is adorned with bold red-orange horizontal stripes and a dramatically elongated first dorsal fin ray that extends well above the body, creating a distinctive banner-like appearance. This combination of beauty and behavior has made it one of the most desirable nano fish in the hobby.

Like other shrimp gobies, the Yasha Goby forms a mutualistic partnership with Alpheid pistol shrimp, most commonly Alpheus randalli. The shrimp, which has poor eyesight, constructs and maintains a shared burrow while the goby stands guard at the entrance, alerting the shrimp to approaching predators with rapid tail flicks. This fascinating interspecific relationship is one of the most captivating natural behaviors observable in the home aquarium.

The Yasha Goby is a peaceful, somewhat shy species best suited for calm, mature aquariums with fine sand substrate for burrowing. It does best in nano or small reef setups where it will not be outcompeted for food by larger, more aggressive feeders. While it commands a premium price compared to more common shrimp gobies, its stunning appearance and engaging behavior make it a worthwhile investment for the dedicated aquarist.

Feeding & Diet

Carnivore

Yasha Gobies are carnivores that feed on small crustaceans and zooplankton near their burrow. In captivity, offer frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, cyclops, and finely chopped seafood. Target-feeding near the burrow entrance may be necessary initially. Feed two to three times daily.

Compatibility

reef-safepeacefulnano-compatibleshrimp-gobysymbiotic

The Yasha Goby is extremely peaceful and should only be housed with non-aggressive, similarly-sized tankmates. It can be intimidated by larger or aggressive fish. Pairs beautifully with Randall's Pistol Shrimp. Compatible with other peaceful nano fish like small clownfish, firefish, and other gobies (different species). Completely reef-safe.

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Breeding

Difficult

Yasha Gobies can spawn in captivity within their shared burrow with pistol shrimp. Males guard eggs until hatching. Larvae are very small and require specialized planktonic foods. Home breeding has been achieved but remains challenging and uncommon.