ORA Hybrid Cleaner Goby Captive-Bred – Peaceful Reef-Safe Goby
The ORA Hybrid Cleaner Goby Captive-Bred (Elacatinus oceanops x Elacatinus figaro) is the result of crossing the Blue Neon Goby and the Yellowline Goby into one hardy, peaceful aquarium fish. Known for hybrid vigor, this goby grows faster and slightly larger than its parent species while offering the same parasite-cleaning behavior that benefits both community and reef aquariums. As a captive-bred specimen from ORA, it is hardier, more disease-resistant, and better adapted to aquarium life than wild-caught fish.
Key Facts
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Elacatinus oceanops x Elacatinus figaro |
| Family | Gobiidae |
| Origin | Aquacultured, ORA |
| Max Size | 2–2.5 inches |
| Purchase Size | 0.25–1.5 inches |
| Lifespan | 2–3 years |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Minimum Tank Size | 10 gallons |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Diet | Carnivore; meaty foods, frozen and prepared |
| Temperature | 72–80°F |
| pH Range | 8.0–8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.026 |
Appearance
The ORA Hybrid Cleaner Goby features a slender dark body with a distinct yellow stripe running from the snout to the tail. This stripe often transitions into turquoise or light blue after the gills. Hybrids grow faster and slightly larger than either parent species, giving them a vigorous presence in reef or community aquariums.
Care & Requirements
This goby thrives in aquariums as small as 10 gallons, though larger systems provide more stability. A sandy substrate and live rock with caves and crevices are ideal for hiding and establishing a cleaning station. As natural jumpers, tanks should be securely covered. They eat a wide range of foods including mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality pellets. Regular feeding is recommended even though they also clean parasites from tank mates.
Are ORA Hybrid Cleaner Gobies reef safe? Yes, they are reef safe and will not bother corals or most invertebrates.
How long do Hybrid Cleaner Gobies live in captivity? With proper care, they typically live 2–3 years.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
The ORA Hybrid Cleaner Goby is peaceful and does well with other non-aggressive fish such as clownfish, firefish, cardinalfish, and wrasses. They should not be housed with predatory species like lionfish that may view them as food. Cleaner gobies may be kept singly, in pairs, or in groups if the tank size allows.
Can multiple Hybrid Cleaner Gobies live together? Yes, if the tank is large enough, they may be kept in pairs or groups.
Will Hybrid Cleaner Gobies fight with other gobies? Territorial disputes can occur in small tanks but are minimal in larger systems with plenty of space.
Aquaculture/Availability
ORA has successfully bred and raised this hybrid in captivity, making it a sustainable alternative to wild-caught gobies. Captive-bred specimens are hardier, more resistant to common diseases, and better adjusted to aquarium life. Availability is limited and restocks can sell out quickly due to demand.
Are captive-bred Hybrid Cleaner Gobies healthier than wild-caught cleaner gobies? Yes, they are generally more resilient and adapt better to aquarium conditions.
How often are ORA Hybrid Cleaner Gobies available? Availability depends on breeding cycles and can vary, so purchasing when in stock is recommended.
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.
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FAQ
How big do ORA Hybrid Cleaner Gobies get?
They typically reach 2–2.5 inches, making them suitable for nano tanks as well as larger reef systems. Their hybrid vigor means they may grow slightly larger and faster than their parent species.
Do ORA Hybrid Cleaner Gobies require a sand bed?
While not mandatory, a sand bed with live rock and crevices helps them establish natural cleaning stations and provides safe hiding areas. Bare-bottom tanks are possible but offer less enrichment.
What do Hybrid Cleaner Gobies eat in a reef tank?
They feed on parasites from tank mates but should also be given a varied diet of frozen mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and pellets to ensure long-term health.
Can ORA Hybrid Cleaner Gobies be kept in nano aquariums?
Yes, they can live in tanks as small as 10 gallons, though larger tanks are preferred for stability and if keeping multiple gobies together.
Are Hybrid Cleaner Gobies aggressive toward other fish?
No, they are peaceful and generally avoid conflict. However, they may defend their territory from other gobies if kept in cramped conditions.
How often should I feed a Hybrid Cleaner Goby?
Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily. Even though they pick parasites from tank mates, supplemental feeding is essential for long-term health.
Do they help control parasites in reef aquariums?
Yes, their natural cleaning behavior benefits community tanks by reducing parasites and debris from larger fish, supporting overall tank health.
What is the lifespan of an ORA Hybrid Cleaner Goby?
They typically live 2–3 years in captivity with proper diet, stable water parameters, and compatible tank mates.
| size | 0.25 inch+ |
|---|




