Description
The yellow prawn-goby, or Cryptocentrus cinctus, is a small, bottom-dwelling goby native to the Western Pacific. They are known for their symbiotic relationship with alpheid shrimps, sharing burrows and benefiting each other. The fish can range in color from bright yellow to gray or brown, and can grow up to 10 centimeters long.
Here's a more detailed look at the yellow prawn-goby:
Appearance:
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They can have a brilliant yellow color.
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They can also have gray or brown coloration.
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They may have a combination of these colors.
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They often have 4-5 dusky bars and fine blue or white spotting on their head and body.
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They can reach a length of up to 10 cm (3.9 in).
Habitat and Behavior:
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They are found in coastal bays and lagoons.
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They inhabit depths of 1 to 25 meters (3.3 to 82.0 ft).
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They are symbiotic with alpheid shrimps.
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They share burrows with shrimps, with the shrimp digging and maintaining the tunnel while the goby acts as a watchman.
Other Notable Features:
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They can change color based on their environment and comfort level.
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In good conditions, they are a bright yellow.
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Under stress, they can become gray or brown.
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They are popular in saltwater aquariums.
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They are often kept in aquariums as small as 20 gallons (75 L).