Links Sleeper Goby

Also known as the Brownbar Sleeper Goby or the Link’s Sift Goby.

The Links Sleeper Goby is a peaceful sand-sifting species recognized for its subtle coloration, gentle nature, and constant foraging behavior. It spends its time cleaning and aerating the sand bed, making it both beautiful and functionally beneficial for reef aquariums. Being captive bred, this species adapts more easily to aquarium life, feeds readily, and is typically hardier than wild-caught specimens.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Valenciennea helsdingenii
Common Names: Links Sleeper Goby, Brownbar Sleeper Goby, Link’s Sift Goby
Adult Size: 4–6 inches
Lifespan: Several years in a stable aquarium
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, bottom-dwelling
Reef Compatibility: Fully reef-safe
Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: In the wild, Links Sleeper Gobies are found in Indo-Pacific sandy reef zones where they sift sand for food and maintain small burrows. They prefer open sandy areas combined with rockwork for shelter.

Tank Environment:
• Provide a soft sand bed of at least 2–3 inches for natural sifting
• Include rock structures and caves where they can retreat when stressed
• Moderate water flow with open swimming room across the sand

Recommended Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025 sg
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Nitrate: Low to moderate levels preferred

Diet & Feeding

Links Sleeper Gobies are carnivorous sand sifters that naturally consume tiny invertebrates, worms, and microfauna found within the substrate. Captive bred individuals adapt quickly to prepared foods.

Recommended Foods:
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• Small crustaceans and marine microfauna
• Frozen carnivore blends
• High-quality sinking pellets

Feeding Schedule: Feed 1–2 times a day in small portions. Ensure some food reaches the sand bed so they can feed naturally.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament: Calm, peaceful, and active sand sifters. They spend most of their time filtering sand through their gills while keeping the substrate clean and oxygenated.

Tank Mates:
• Compatible with peaceful reef fish including gobies, blennies, dartfish, clownfish, and cardinals
• Avoid aggressive or predatory fish
• Fully safe with corals and invertebrates

Breeding Potential

As a captive bred species, Links Sleeper Gobies may pair and display spawning behavior. However, successful home breeding is uncommon because the larvae require planktonic foods and specialized rearing conditions. Captive bred origins, however, increase the likelihood of pairing and stable long-term health.

Why Choose Us

At Dr Reefs, every Captive Bred Links Sleeper Goby undergoes a full multi-week quarantine process. They are monitored closely, treated proactively if needed, and conditioned to accept a wide range of aquarium foods. This ensures your goby arrives healthy, settled, and ready to thrive in a new environment, offering all the benefits of captive breeding with the added security of professional quarantine.