Crosshatch Goby

The Amblygobius decussatus, commonly known as the Crosshatch Goby, is a peaceful and attractive sand-sifting goby prized for both its unique appearance and beneficial behavior in marine aquariums. This species features a subtly beautiful pattern of interlacing lines across a creamy to pale yellow body, with hues that can range from tan to olive depending on lighting and mood. Its gentle nature and active burrowing habits make it a practical and ornamental addition to reef tanks.

Native to shallow lagoons and sandy reef flats of the Indo-Pacific, the Crosshatch Goby typically grows to about 1012 cm in length. Due to its natural digging behavior and need for substrate to forage and burrow, it is best housed in aquariums of at least 120 litres with a soft sand bed and ample rockwork. These gobies will often create burrows for shelter and may form a symbiotic pair if kept as a bonded duo, adding further interest to their activity.

One of the Crosshatch Gobys most valuable roles in the aquarium is its ability to help aerate and clean the substrate by sifting sand in search of food. This natural behavior helps prevent detritus buildup and promotes a healthier sand bed. They are peaceful and reef-safe, making them excellent companions for other non-aggressive tank mates and compatible with a wide range of corals and invertebrates.

Feeding is straightforward, as Amblygobius decussatus readily accepts a variety of foods. While they will glean microorganisms from the sand, their diet should be supplemented with high-quality frozen foods like mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood, as well as sinking pellets. A well-fed and secure goby will display increased activity, better coloration, and long-term health, making the Crosshatch Goby a functional and engaging inhabitant for reef aquariums.