Scissortail Goby

Scissortail Goby

Also known as the Twinstripe Goby or Scissor Goby. 

The Scissortail Goby is a peaceful, slender reef fish characterized by its pale body with subtle markings and a distinct forked or scissored tail. These gobies are active bottom-dwellers that perch near the substrate, often establishing small burrows for protection. Their calm temperament, interesting swimming behavior, and compatibility with small to medium reef tanks make them a favorite among both beginners and experienced hobbyists.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Ptereleotris evides
Common Names: Scissortail Goby, Twinstripe Goby, Scissor Goby
Adult Size: 4–5 inches (10–12 cm)
Lifespan: Several years in stable aquarium conditions
Temperament: Peaceful, shy, bottom-dwelling
Reef Compatibility: Fully reef-safe
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat:
Scissortail Gobies are native to the Indo-Pacific, living in sandy or rubble zones near coral reefs. They often dig burrows or share them with compatible shrimp species, using the burrow as a safe retreat.

Tank Environment:

• Provide a deep sandy substrate for burrowing
  
• Include stable rockwork and crevices for shelter
  
• Optional: Pair with compatible pistol shrimp to encourage natural behavior
  
• Use a tight-fitting lid, as they may jump if startled
  
• Maintain moderate water flow and high-quality, stable water conditions
  

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

Scissortail Gobies are carnivorous sand-sifters, feeding on tiny crustaceans and microfauna in the wild. In aquariums, they adapt well to a variety of meaty prepared 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. Ensure food reaches the substrate so the goby can feed naturally without competition.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:
The Scissortail Goby is peaceful and spends most of its time near the substrate or burrow, often performing sand-sifting behavior. It is calm and compatible with a variety of reef species.

Tank Mates:

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

Breeding Potential

These gobies may form pairs and spawn within burrows in the wild. While pairing may occur in aquariums, successful breeding is uncommon due to the delicate eggs and specialized care needed for the larvae.

Why Choose Us

At Dr Reefs, every Scissortail Goby is quarantined carefully for several weeks. They are closely monitored for parasites, treated when necessary, and conditioned to accept a variety of foods. Our process ensures each goby arrives healthy, stable, and ready to adapt confidently to your reef aquarium.