Twin Spot Goby – Signigobius biocellatus

Quarantine and Conditioning Started on 10/2 - Release Date: 10/23
If you wish to purchase this fish before the release date we will hold the fish for you. Let us know your desired ship date. If there is an issue during the Quarantine process, we will issue a refund.

The Twin Spot Goby (Signigobius biocellatus) is a distinctive sand-dwelling marine goby recognized by the two prominent eye-like spots, or ocelli, displayed on its dorsal fins. Its pale cream to tan body is patterned with irregular orange-brown markings and iridescent blue highlights, while the paired dorsal eyespots create one of the most unusual appearances among small reef-associated gobies.

The species name biocellatus refers directly to these two conspicuous ocellated dorsal markings. FishBase describes the species as pale bluish-gray to yellowish-tan with irregular brown markings, dark pelvic and anal fins with blue spots, and the characteristic dorsal eyespots. FishBase

Signigobius biocellatus is a Western Pacific species. Its documented range extends from the Philippines through the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, south to the southern Great Barrier Reef, with Palau also included in its range. FishBase

In nature, Twin Spot Gobies inhabit sandy to silty bottoms in lagoons and coastal bays, generally close to coral, rubble or other protective structure. They may occur singly or as pairs and use burrows in sandy substrates. FishBase documents a depth range of approximately 1–30 meters (3–98 feet). FishBase

Feeding ecology is especially important with this species. Twin Spot Gobies take mouthfuls of substrate and sift the sand for small interstitial invertebrates. This natural feeding strategy makes a mature sand bed and careful feeding particularly important in captivity. FishBase

Adults can form monogamous pairs, with paired individuals sharing sandy burrows. FishBase documents both social and obligate monogamous mating behavior for the species. FishBase

The scientifically documented maximum size is 10 cm standard length, approximately 3.9 inches, although total length can be somewhat greater because standard length does not include the tail fin. FishBase

This Indonesian specimen is offered as one of Dr. Mac's Quarantined and Conditioned Fish.

Care Guide

Scientific Name: Signigobius biocellatus Hoese & Allen, 1977
Common Name: Twin Spot Goby
Other Common Names: Twinspot Goby, Two Spot Goby, Crab-Eye Goby, Signal Goby
Family: Gobiidae
Origin: Indonesia
Availability: Conditioned & Quarantined
Care Level: Moderate to Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatibility: Reef Compatible
Minimum Aquarium Size: 30 gallons recommended
Maximum Size: 10 cm SL / approximately 3.9 inches standard length FishBase
Diet: Carnivorous sand-sifter; small benthic/interstitial invertebrates form an important natural food source FishBase
Temperature: 75–80°F
Specific Gravity: 1.023–1.026
pH: 8.1–8.4

Aquarium Requirements: This species should have a mature aquarium with a substantial fine-sand substrate that allows natural sifting and burrowing behavior. Rockwork should be stable and positioned so excavation beneath or around it cannot cause structures to shift.

Diet and Feeding: This is the most important aspect of keeping S. biocellatus. In nature, it takes mouthfuls of sand and extracts small interstitial invertebrates. FishBase In captivity, offer small meaty foods such as enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped mysis, copepods and other appropriately sized marine foods. Food should reach the bottom where the goby naturally feeds.

Established Sand Bed: I strongly recommend this fish for a mature aquarium rather than a newly established system. Its natural sand-sifting feeding strategy means a biologically active substrate is particularly beneficial.

Temperament: Peaceful toward most community fishes. Individuals may defend their immediate burrow area, but this is not generally an aggressive community species.

Pairs: Twin Spot Gobies naturally occur singly or in pairs, and paired adults may share the same sandy burrow. The species is documented as monogamous. FishBase A known compatible pair can therefore make a particularly interesting aquarium display.

Reef Compatibility: Reef compatible. It does not naturally feed on corals. However, its vigorous sand-sifting can redistribute substrate and potentially deposit sand on low-growing corals, so coral placement should take this behavior into account.

Secure Cover: A secure aquarium cover is recommended.

Natural Habitat: Sandy and silty bottoms of lagoons and coastal bays near coral, rubble or other shelter at approximately 1–30 meters. FishBase