Scissortail Goby Fiji

Scissortail Goby Fiji Ptereleotris evides with Open Water Swimming Behavior

The Scissortail Goby stays in motion, hovering above the substrate before making quick directional shifts through open space. Its white head transitions into a soft blue body, giving it a clean, high-contrast appearance under reef lighting.

Scissortail Goby Movement and Tank Behavior

The Scissortail Goby prefers open swimming zones but always remains close enough to retreat into rockwork when needed. It reacts quickly to movement, often darting into hiding before re-emerging once the environment feels stable. This species is peaceful toward most tankmates but can become territorial with others of similar shape. Keeping a single individual or a bonded pair avoids unnecessary conflict.

Discover similar species within the Gobies category to build a compatible and active reef aquarium.

Habitat Setup for Scissortail Goby

The Scissortail thrives in aquariums that combine open water with structured hiding areas. A sandbed and loose rubble provide security while allowing natural behavior.

• Requires open swimming space
• Needs rockwork with caves and gaps
• Benefits from a soft sand substrate
• Must have a secure lid due to jumping behavior

Scissortail Goby Feeding and Diet

The Scissortail feeds on small meaty foods and responds well to consistent feeding routines. Its feeding style reflects natural plankton and micro-prey capture.

• Mysis shrimp
• Enriched brine shrimp
• Finely chopped seafood
• Small frozen carnivore blends

Frequent feeding helps maintain energy and coloration.

Scissortail Goby Care Details

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful with territorial tendencies toward its own kind
• Color Form: White head with blue to purple body tones
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Water Conditions: 72–78°F, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity 1.020–1.025, dKH 8–12
• Max Size: Up to 5.5 inches
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Fiji region)
• Family: Gobiidae
• Minimum Tank Size Requirements: 30 gallons

Appearance and Structure

The Scissortail Ptereleotris evides features elongated fins and a streamlined body built for hovering and quick directional movement. Its dorsal and anal fins extend prominently, adding to its overall presence in the water column.

Aquarium Compatibility

The Scissortail integrates easily into peaceful reef tanks and contributes constant mid-water activity. It pairs well with non-aggressive species and benefits from stable aquascaping.

FAQ

Is the Scissortail Goby reef safe?

Yes, the Scissortail Goby is reef compatible and does not typically disturb corals or invertebrates.

Does the Scissortail need a lid?

A tight-fitting lid is strongly recommended, as this species is known to jump when startled.

Can multiple Scissortail Gobies be kept together?

Only a bonded pair should be kept together. Otherwise, they may become territorial and aggressive toward each other.

What does the Scissortail eat?

It accepts a variety of meaty foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.