ORA Tiger Goby Captive-Bred for Sale
The ORA Tiger Goby (Elacatinus macrodon) is a peaceful, reef-safe saltwater fish bred by ORA for nano and pico aquariums. With its silver body marked by bold dark vertical stripes, this small goby adds motion and contrast to reef tanks while remaining non-aggressive toward other species. ORA’s captive-bred specimens are hardier, acclimate easily to prepared aquarium foods, and help promote sustainable aquaculture. Ideal for aquarists seeking a hardy, eco-friendly choice, the ORA Tiger Goby thrives even in smaller reef setups and accepts a variety of frozen or prepared foods. Due to limited-release aquaculture batches, availability can be scarce—reserve when in stock to secure yours.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Elacatinus macrodon |
| Family | Gobiidae |
| Origin | Florida Keys to northern South America |
| Max Size | 1.25 inches |
| Purchase Size | 0.75–2 inch |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Minimum Tank Size | 10 gallons |
| Temperament | Peaceful, semi-territorial toward own species |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Diet | Carnivore – mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, fine pellets |
| Temperature | 76–80°F |
| pH Range | 7.8–8.5 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.026 specific gravity |
Appearance
The ORA Tiger Goby features a translucent silver body with distinct black vertical stripes running from head to tail. Its streamlined shape and darting movements add visual energy to nano reef aquariums.
Care & Requirements
This goby thrives in stable, well-filtered aquariums with live rock for shelter and natural grazing. Maintain salinity between 1.020–1.026 and pH around 7.8–8.5. Because of their small size, a 10-gallon or larger tank is sufficient. Provide moderate water flow and gentle lighting. Feed a carnivorous diet of mysis shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and sinking pellets twice daily.
Captive-bred Tiger Gobies adapt readily to prepared foods and show less stress during acclimation. Avoid housing multiple males unless kept as a bonded pair to prevent territorial disputes.
Do Tiger Gobies need live food?
No, ORA Tiger Gobies accept frozen or prepared meaty foods, making feeding easy.
Can they live in a 10-gallon tank?
Yes, they are perfectly suited for nano and pico aquariums.
How often should I feed them?
Offer small meals two to three times daily for best color and energy.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
The ORA Tiger Goby is peaceful and reef-safe, ideal for tanks with small non-aggressive fish. Suitable companions include clownfish, firefish, cardinalfish, cleaner shrimp, snails, and hermit crabs. Avoid aggressive or predatory species that may harass or outcompete this small goby.
Are Tiger Gobies aggressive toward each other?
Only slightly; males may defend territory unless part of a mated pair.
Can Tiger Gobies live with shrimp?
Yes, they are entirely compatible with cleaner and ornamental shrimp.
Do they bother corals?
No, they are completely reef-safe.
Aquaculture/Availability
ORA is globally recognized as a leader in sustainable marine aquaculture, and their captive-bred Tiger Gobies are produced exclusively through aquaculture. Captive breeding ensures disease resistance, easier acclimation, and supports ocean conservation by reducing pressure on wild populations. Availability is limited due to small-batch hatchery cycles—order when available to secure a healthy, sustainably raised specimen.
Are ORA Tiger Gobies always captive-bred?
Yes, ORA produces these fish exclusively through aquaculture.
Why choose captive-bred over wild?
Captive-bred gobies are hardier, eat prepared foods, and adapt quickly.
Are they rare in stores?
Availability is limited due to small batch aquaculture—buy when in stock.
Why Buy From Oceansgarden.com
- Captive-Bred & Sustainable: Many of our fish and invertebrates are captive-bred or sustainably sourced to promote healthy reef ecosystems.
- Expert Care Before Shipping: Every animal is maintained under professional aquarium standards for health, diet, and water quality.
- Live Arrival Guarantee: We stand behind each shipment with a Live Arrival Guarantee for your peace of mind.
- Fast, Reliable Shipping: Orders are packed with proven methods and shipped overnight to ensure safe arrival.
- Transparent Policies: Clear shipping, refund, and guarantee information available on every order page.
- Trusted by Hobbyists: Backed by years of experience and thousands of satisfied marine aquarium keepers across the U.S.
FAQ
How large does the ORA Tiger Goby grow?
Most individuals reach about 1 to 1.25 inches in length, making them ideal for nano and pico reef aquariums. Their compact size allows them to navigate small rock crevices and coral branches with ease.
What is the lifespan of an ORA Tiger Goby?
They typically live 3 to 5 years in a well-maintained aquarium with stable water quality and consistent feeding.
Is the ORA Tiger Goby reef-safe with corals and invertebrates?
Yes, it is completely reef-safe. It will not nip at corals or invertebrates and coexists peacefully with shrimp, snails, and crabs.
What do ORA Tiger Gobies eat in captivity?
Feed a varied carnivorous diet that includes mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-protein micro pellets. They do not require live foods to thrive.
Can Tiger Gobies be kept in pairs or groups?
A bonded pair can share a tank peacefully, but multiple males in confined spaces may become territorial.
How should I acclimate a new ORA Tiger Goby?
Use a slow drip acclimation method over 30–45 minutes to match salinity and temperature. Sudden shifts can cause stress in small gobies.
Are Tiger Gobies suitable for beginners?
Yes, they are hardy, forgiving of small fluctuations, and feed easily on frozen and prepared foods—making them perfect for new reef keepers.
Do captive-bred Tiger Gobies differ from wild ones?
Captive-bred individuals are generally hardier, less aggressive, and readily accept prepared foods, unlike wild-caught specimens that often demand live feeding.
What’s the ideal tank setup for an ORA Tiger Goby?
Provide live rock, sand substrate, and moderate flow. They prefer crevices for shelter and open sand patches for sifting behavior.
How do I know if my Tiger Goby is healthy?
Look for steady swimming, bright coloration, clear eyes, and a consistent appetite. A healthy goby will actively perch and dart between rocks.
| size | 1-2 inches |
|---|
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