Hector’s Goby

Also known as Hector’s Hover Goby.

Hector’s Goby is a peaceful, slender reef fish known for its dark body highlighted with bright yellow horizontal stripes. It stays small, remains active throughout the day, and is especially valued for its natural grazing behavior, helping control microalgae and detritus. This species thrives in calm, mature reef systems and is ideal for nano and medium aquariums.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Koumansetta hectori
Common Names: Hector’s Goby, Hector’s Hover Goby
Adult Size: 3 inches
Lifespan: Several years with good care
Temperament: Peaceful, active grazer
Reef Compatibility: Fully reef-safe
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: Hector’s Gobies inhabit sandy lagoons and shallow reef flats across the Indo-Pacific. They stay close to the substrate while grazing on algae and picking through sand for tiny food particles.

Tank Environment:

• Provide sand substrate for natural grazing and sifting behavior
• Include live rock structures for shelter and resting
• Moderate water movement with calm zones along the bottom

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

Diet & Feeding

Hector’s Gobies are omnivores that graze on algae, detritus, and tiny organisms in the wild. In captivity they require a mix of prepared foods and naturally available microalgae.

Recommended Foods:

• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• High-quality omnivore pellets
• Spirulina-based foods
• Frozen microfauna blends
• Natural algae growth on rocks and sand

Feeding Schedule: Feed 1–2 times daily. Ensure they have access to natural grazing surfaces to support long-term health.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament: Hector’s Goby is shy but becomes confident as it settles. It hovers near the substrate, grazing constantly and interacting peacefully with other fish.

Tank Mates:

• Ideal with peaceful species such as clownfish, firefish, dartfish, neon gobies, small wrasses, and blennies
• Avoid aggressive gobies or territorial bottom-dwellers
• Completely reef-safe with corals and invertebrates

Breeding Potential

Hector’s Gobies may form pairs and lay eggs in sheltered crevices. Males guard the eggs until hatching. Successful breeding in home aquariums is uncommon due to the delicate nature of the larvae and their specific feeding needs.

Why Choose Us

At Dr Reefs, every Hector’s Goby undergoes a full quarantine cycle to ensure optimal health. They are carefully monitored, treated when necessary, and conditioned to eat a variety of prepared foods. This helps them adjust easily to home aquariums, providing you with a strong, healthy, and reliable addition to your reef tank.