Eviota pellucida – Transparent Dwarfgoby
Eviota pellucida was first described by Larson in 1976. The genus name “Eviota” is derived from the Latin ‘eu’ for ‘true’ and ‘iota’ for something very small, which together mean ‘really very small’. This refers to the fact that it was the smallest vertebrate at the time it was described by Jenkins.
In the trade they are referred to by different names: Transparent Dwarfgoby, Neon Pygmy Goby or Pellucida Pygmy Goby.
Description
This species reaches a total length of up to about 2.5 centimeters. The color of Eviota pellucida is transparent pink/red. Horizontal red stripes run from the head to about the middle of the body. The body is partly transparent. The transparent part is provided with red dots. The fins are transparent and provided with the same red spots.
Eviota pellucida is similar to Eviota atriventris. However, this species has a dark spot on the belly with a white stripe on it.
Sexual Dimorphism
The difference between males and females is difficult to see. Males have an elongated, flattened papilla with an expanded papillate tip that may be slightly bilobate (divided into two). Females have a short, rounded papilla with four slender projections at the tip.
Behavior and Temperament
Eviota pellucida is a very shy and gentle species. They need good hiding places, such as between live rock, and can live with conspecifics if introduced at the same time. This species is generally gentle but can be aggressive toward similar species
Biotope
Eviota pellucida lives in the western Pacific Ocean, mainly in coral reefs at a depth of 3 to 30 meters. They occur in the Ryukyu Islands and Micronesia (Pohnpei, Guam, Marshall Islands and Kiribati).
Diet
This small fish also needs small food. They are carnivores that you can feed with artemia nauplii and zooplankton.
The Aquarium
The recommended minimum volume for keeping Eviota pellucida is 50 liters. The water temperature should be between 22°C and 26°C. Eviota pellucida needs a lot of hiding places, such as crevices and holes in live rock, to feel safe. A sand or finely crushed coral substrate is ideal for this species because it mimics the natural environment.
Eviota pellucida is a gentle and shy fish that can live well with other peaceful reef fish. They can also live with conspecifics, provided they are introduced at the same time. Avoid keeping Eviota pellucida with aggressive fish, as they can easily become stressed.
Author
John de Lange
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