Captive-Bred Yellowline Goby (Elacatinus figaro)

A tiny, striking addition to reef aquariums, the Yellowline Goby is a popular cleaner goby known for its bright yellow stripe and compact size. In captive-bred form, these fish tend to be hardier and adapt well to aquarium life, making them a reliable choice for nano and small reef setups. They’re reef-safe and typically stay around 1.5 inches when fully grown, which makes them ideal for smaller tanks. Captive-bred origins are common in the trade, offering early health advantages and easier acclimation to prepared foods .

As a natural parasite cleaner, the Yellowline Goby helps reduce ectoparasites on host fish, a behavior that’s highly valued in reef tanks and mixed-species aquariums .

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful to mildly territorial in small spaces
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Maximum Size: About 1.5 inches
• Diet: Carnivore; meaty foods and prepared options
• Lifespan: Typically several years in well-maintained systems
• Origin: Captive-bred

Care Guide

Tank Setup and Habitat A 10 gallon or larger tank is suitable for a single Yellowline Goby, with ample live rock and plenty of hiding spots to mimic its natural reef-dwelling behavior . Provide a secure lid, as these fish can jump when stressed. A rock-dominated aquascape with crevices gives them territory to claim and reduces stress, encouraging regular visibility in the open water .

Water Parameters Keep the environment stable and reef-ready. Target a temperature in the low to mid 70s Fahrenheit (roughly 72–78°F) and maintain good water quality with steady salinity and alkalinity typical of small reef setups . While exact numbers can vary by system, the emphasis is on consistency and low disturbance rather than chasing precise figures in a small tank.

Diet and Feeding Yellowline Gobies are carnivores and will accept a mix of meaty frozen foods and prepared fare. In captivity, they commonly eat cyclops, baby brine shrimp, mysis, and similar items, and they will also take high-quality carnivore pellets or flakes . Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, ensuring they get enough nutrition without overfeeding the system.

Behavior and Tankmates They are generally peaceful and well-suited to nano reefs and community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species. They can establish a small territory, so provide enough rockwork to create distinct spaces. Avoid housing with larger, very aggressive fish or with multiple dominant gobies in a tiny tank, which can lead to stress or fighting .

Cleaning role in the tank As a cleaner goby, they routinely pick parasites and dead skin off larger fish, contributing to the overall health of a reef community. This natural cleaning behavior is one of the reasons hobbyists prize them in mixed-species setups .