Marble Goby (Oxyeleotris marmorata) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 120 gallons and 72-82°F. A big, mottled, bottom-dwelling goby that sits still for hours, then swallows tankmates in one gulp. It is often sold small, so plan for its adult size and a large, cave-filled tank with sturdy equipment.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Oxyeleotris marmorata |
|---|---|
| Family | Eleotridae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Mekong, Thailand, Malaysia) |
| Adult size | 16-20 in |
| Minimum tank | 120 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.8 |
| Temperament | Sedentary ambush predator; eats anything that fits its mouth |
| Social behavior | Solitary |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: live and frozen fish and shrimp, large sinking pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for a very large adult.
- Do not keep with fish or shrimp it can swallow.
- Provide caves and wood; it is mostly nocturnal.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi