Watchman Goby Question

[OCDP]

I have decided to try BB out on the new cube, which will be up by the end of this week. So.... I am wondering what to do with my watchman goby. He's a definite sand digger (is that a word?) Anyways, can he survive in a BB tank? Or will he be completely stressed and die without sand? I'd hate to let him go, he's been with me through it all.. he's a tank that guy.

Thanks in advance guys,

Scott

[G1GY]

Gold has a YWG in a BB tank that's doing great.

[Paverdude]

You could try giving him some nice small crevices/caves to hide in.

[OCDP]

Yeah, I am wondering if by going BB, and having no sand will severly stress the fish out or not though.. I guess in short I am wondering "does a YWG need a sandbed" ?

[sergeantpilot]

My watchman has had no problems with my BB 65gal, he does tend to hide under rocks most times and only comes out for feedings. Doesn't appear to be stress or have any other issues.

[OCDP]

Thanks for the input. Mine hides all the time.. and only comes out for feedings as well.

By the sounds of things, it seems like he should be okay in the BB setup . If I notice he starts acting a little weird, I'll fix the problem.

Thank you all.

[GMGQ]

Well if it's BB, they HAVE NO CHOICE but to hide in the rock crevices. I'm sure they'll 'make do,' but I wouldnt go so far as to say they're 100% happy.

They're used to sand in their natural environment. I think they should be provided with sand in a captive environment.

[Skimmer Juice]

True that's like putting seahorse in a tank with nothing to branch on to.Sure they might live but are they happy.

[naesco]

You probably noticed your goby sifting the sand to get algae and the micro-organisms it needs.

IMO you should remove it and place it in an environment that suits it needs.