Neon Cleaner Goby
Neon Cleaner Goby (Elacatinus oceanops)
The Neon Cleaner Goby is a small but striking reef fish, instantly recognizable by its jet-black body accented with an electric blue stripe running from nose to tail. Hardy, peaceful, and active, it is well known for its beneficial cleaning behavior, often picking parasites and dead tissue from tankmates.
Native to the Western Atlantic and Caribbean, this goby is perfect for nano and community reef tanks. It’s a great choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike, offering both beauty and utility in a compact package.
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Scientific Name: Elacatinus oceanops
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Temperament: Peaceful
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Reef Safe: Yes
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Diet: Carnivore — thrives on frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, and small high-quality pellets; will also clean tankmates
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Care Level: Easy
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Max Size: ~2 inches
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Tank Size: 10+ gallons
Note: Best kept singly or as a mated pair. A tight-fitting lid is recommended, as they may jump when startled. Though known for cleaning fish, they should not be relied upon solely for parasite control — supplement with a proper diet.
