Description

Scientific Name: Amblygobius rainfordi
Common Names: Rainford’s Goby, Old Glory Goby
Maximum Length: 2.5 inches (6.5 cm)
Minimum Aquarium Size: 20 gallons (76 liters) for a single fish; 30 gallons (113 liters) or larger for a pair or small group. Their small size and bottom-dwelling habits make them suitable for modestly sized tanks with plenty of substrate.
Foods and Feeding Habits: Omnivorous, sifting through sand for small invertebrates and algae in the wild. In aquariums, offer a mix of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and algae-based flakes or pellets with spirulina. Feed small amounts 1-2 times daily. A tank with a fine sand bed can help them forage naturally, reducing reliance on prepared foods.
Reef Safety: Reef-safe; they pose no threat to corals or most invertebrates, making them an excellent choice for reef tanks. Their sand-sifting behavior may stir up substrate.
Temperament: Peaceful and a bit shy, Rainford’s Gobies prefer to stay near the tank bottom, sifting sand or perching on rocks. They get along well with most tankmates but may compete with other bottom-dwellers for territory. Pair with calm species like small wrasses or dartfish for a harmonious setup.
Description: Rainford’s Goby is a charming addition to marine tanks, bringing subtle color and quirky behavior. Its slender body, adorned with alternating green and orange bands and delicate fin spots, adds a quiet beauty to the aquarium floor. Native to the Indo-Pacific, from the Philippines to Australia, they thrive in tanks with a fine sand bed for sifting and live rock for cover. Easy to care for and undemanding, they’re a great pick for beginners and seasoned aquarists looking to add a hardworking, sand-sifting companion.

Fun Facts:

• Rainford’s Gobies are natural tank cleaners, constantly sifting sand to eat tiny critters and algae, helping keep the substrate tidy.
• They often hover just above the sand, using their pectoral fins like tiny wings, giving them a playful, almost floating appearance.
• In the wild, they’re found in shallow lagoons and reef flats, where their small size helps them dart into crevices to avoid predators.