Ctenogobiops tangaroai + Alpheus spp. | All sizes

The Tangaroa Shrimp Goby (Ctenogobiops tangaroai) paired with an Alpheus snapping shrimp is a popular symbiotic duo in the marine aquarium hobby. These pairs form a mutualistic relationship where the goby acts as a lookout while the shrimp maintains a shared burrow, providing shelter for both.

Care and Husbandry: This pair requires a well-established marine aquarium with stable water parameters. A minimum tank size of 60 litres is recommended to provide adequate space for burrowing and swimming. The substrate should be sandy or fine-grained to facilitate burrow construction.

They are peaceful and reef safe, making them suitable for community reef tanks. However, care should be taken when housing with larger or aggressive tank mates that may prey on them.

Feeding: Both species are carnivorous and will accept a variety of meaty foods such as frozen mysis, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Feeding should be done once or twice daily to maintain optimal health.

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

Overall, the Tangaroa Shrimp Goby and Alpheus shrimp pair is an excellent addition to marine reef tanks, offering fascinating behaviour and a natural symbiotic relationship to observe.