Yellow Clown Goby

Yellow Clown Goby

Also known as the Golden Clown Goby or Yellow Goby. 

The Yellow Clown Goby is a small, vibrant reef fish with a bright yellow body and a cheerful presence. Known for their peaceful nature and hardy temperament, these gobies are ideal for nano and small reef aquariums. They remain close to rockwork and corals, making them a delightful addition for hobbyists seeking active, yet non-aggressive fish.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Gobiodon okinawae
Common Names: Yellow Clown Goby, Golden Clown Goby, Yellow Goby
Adult Size: 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm)
Lifespan: Several years in stable aquarium conditions
Temperament: Peaceful, small, bottom-dwelling
Reef Compatibility: Fully reef-safe
Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Yellow Clown Gobies are native to Indo-Pacific reefs, where they reside among coral branches and rocky outcrops. They are closely associated with branching corals, often using them for shelter and protection.

Tank Environment:

• Provide plenty of live rock or coral branches for hiding and perching
• Sand or fine substrate for natural behavior
• Moderate water flow and stable, mature tank conditions
• Ensure no aggressive tank mates that may intimidate these small fish

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

Yellow Clown Gobies are omnivore and feed on tiny invertebrates, copepods, and small meaty foods in the wild. In aquariums, they readily accept small frozen or prepared foods.

Recommended Foods:

• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• Copepods and micro-zooplankton
• Finely chopped marine meats
• Micro-pellets suitable for small carnivorous fish

Feeding Schedule:
Feed 1–2 times per day in small portions, making sure the food reaches the goby’s preferred perching spots among rocks or coral branches.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:
Yellow Clown Gobies are peaceful, shy, and non-territorial. They enjoy perching and exploring corals, creating a charming display in community reef tanks.

Tank Mates:

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

Breeding Potential

These gobies may form monogamous pairs and spawn in the wild within coral branches. Breeding in home aquariums is challenging due to the delicacy of the eggs and larvae, requiring specialized feeding and controlled conditions.

Why Choose Us

At Dr Reefs, every Yellow Clown Goby is quarantined for several weeks. They undergo careful health checks, are treated for parasites when necessary, 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.