Dracula goby?

[myzislow]

I am tossing around the idea of purchasing a very healthy dracula goby that has been down at my LFS for quite some time. I know they prefer a sand bed to make their burrow/home, but really how much of a sand bed is actually needed for them to be comfortable? Right now my tank is basically bare bottom on the left hand side where the detritus accumulates, but I do have quite a bit of sand on the right side where I think he would have enough room to call home. Do you think this would work? If this guy has been by himself for quite some time is there still a chance that he/she would pair up if I were to add another down the line or is that just asking for trouble? Anything specific I should know about them or look for before I make my purchase? I know they are known jumpers so I've got some clear mesh on the way so that shouldn't be an issue. Any help or insight is greatly appreciated.

 

[melanotaenia]

They definitely need a sand bed to be happy, and like to carve out little nooks underneath rocks. So you would be best to have a good sand bed for the little guy. As for the pairing up part, I have seen multiple pairs for sale on Diver's Den in the last few years, but cannot comment as to whether or not the fish were paired by Live Aquaria or they were caught that way.

Maybe someone who has had a pair or paired up two can chime in.

They are awesome fish. Can be a little shy upon introduction, but have great personality.

 

[Stanley-Reefer]

LFS in South Charlotte has one and its mantis in a nano on the sales counter. They set up shop dead center in the front of the tank. They are awesome but SMALL!!!

To enjoy it you'd have to have them in a nano. I don't think you could in a larger tank.