The Catalina Goby "Lythrypnus dalli", is sometimes commonly called the Bluebanded Goby, is a native of Catalina Island, off the coast of Los Angeles, California and is difficult to keep in most community aquariums or reef tanks due to its requirement for cooler temperatures than usual. Although it will tolerate a tropical water temperature, (76 to 78°F), the Catalina Goby prefers the cooler temperatures that range from 68 to 75°F. If exposed to tropical temperatures for too long, the Catalina Goby can experience decreased resistance to disease and a shorter lifespan.
It has a beautiful bright red body with a vivid blue mask and vertical stripes on the front half of its body, and the tail has a yellow tint. This species is very peaceful and will not harm other fish, corals, or invertebrates.
The Catalina Goby will require an well-established 10 gallon nano tank or larger reef aquarium with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate for survival.
They are easy to feed, and readily take vitamin enriched brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and frozen commercially prepared food for marine fish. It rarely becomes aggressive towards other fish, but it is territorial, and will fight with its own kind unless they are a mated pair.
Behavioral males are normally larger and have a longer dorsal fin with black tips on the longest dorsal fin rays. When ready to breed, a behavioral male chooses a cave in which to care for his brood. Males will lure the females into a cave where she will place the eggs on the wall for fertilization and then the males will guard them until they hatch. Males can become quite territorial with other Catalinas, especially during this time period.