Amblyeleotris wheeleri + Alpheus spp. | All sizes

The Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby (Amblyeleotris wheeleri) forms a remarkable symbiotic relationship with Alpheus pistol shrimp, making this pair a fascinating addition to marine aquariums. The goby acts as a lookout while the shrimp maintains their shared burrow, providing both with shelter and protection.

Care and Husbandry: These pairs thrive best in well-established marine tanks with stable water parameters. A minimum tank size of 75 litres is recommended to provide adequate space for burrowing and swimming. The substrate should be sandy or fine-grained to facilitate burrow construction.

Feeding: Both species are carnivorous; feed a varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Feeding small amounts multiple times a day encourages natural foraging behaviour.

Compatibility and Reef Safety: This pair is generally peaceful and reef safe, making them suitable for community reef tanks. However, avoid housing with aggressive species that may disturb their burrows.

Lighting and Water Flow: Moderate lighting and gentle to moderate water flow are ideal to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress.

Adding a Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby and Alpheus pistol shrimp pair provides both visual interest and natural behaviour to your marine aquarium, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem complexity.