Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby

Also known as the Randall’s Shrimp Goby or Wheeler Goby. 

Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby is a peaceful, slender reef fish recognized by its elongated body, pale base color, and subtle orange or brown markings along its sides. These gobies are known for forming symbiotic partnerships with pistol shrimp, sharing burrows and acting as vigilant lookouts. Their calm temperament, fascinating behavior, and adaptability to nano and small reef tanks make them a popular choice among beginners and experienced hobbyists alike.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Amblyeleotris wheeleri
• Common Names: Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby, Randall’s Shrimp Goby, Wheeler Goby
• Adult Size: 3–4 inches (7–10 cm)
• Lifespan: Several years in stable aquarium conditions
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, bottom-dwelling
• Reef Compatibility: Fully reef-safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Wheeler’s Shrimp Gobies are native to the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting sandy areas near coral reefs. They frequently pair with pistol shrimp, forming a mutualistic relationship where the shrimp maintains a burrow and the goby keeps watch for potential threats.

Tank Environment:

• Provide a sandy substrate suitable for burrowing
• Include rockwork and crevices to support burrow structures
• Pair with a compatible pistol shrimp to encourage natural behavior
• Moderate water flow with stable water parameters
• Use a tight lid, as gobies may jump when startled

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

Wheeler’s Shrimp Gobies are carnivorous, feeding on small crustaceans, plankton, and meaty foods in the wild. In aquariums, they adapt well to prepared sinking foods.

Recommended Foods:

• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• Copepods and micro-zooplankton
• Finely chopped seafood
• Small sinking pellets for carnivores

Feeding Schedule:
Feed 1–2 times per day in small portions, ensuring food reaches the burrow area to prevent competition from faster mid-water fish.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:
Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby is peaceful, cautious, and spends most of its time hovering near its burrow. Its symbiotic interaction with the pistol shrimp creates a fascinating and natural display in reef aquariums.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with peaceful community fish such as clownfish, dartfish, blennies, and other small gobies
• Avoid aggressive species or large predators
• Fully reef-safe and compatible with most invertebrates

Breeding Potential

These gobies may form pairs and spawn in burrows in the wild. Successful breeding in home aquariums is rare due to the delicate nature of eggs and larvae, requiring specialized care.

Why Choose Us

At Dr Reefs, every Wheeler’s Shrimp Goby is carefully quarantined for several weeks. They undergo detailed health monitoring, are treated for parasites when needed, and are conditioned to accept a variety of foods. This ensures each goby arrives healthy, stable, and ready to adapt confidently to your aquarium environment.