Chalk Goby

(2 customer reviews)

Last time this was in stock, it was £19.00£45.00

Chalk Goby, Valenciennea sexguttata

  • Common Names: Chalk Goby, Six Spot Goby
  • Latin Name: Valenciennea sexguttata
  • Distribution: The Chalk Goby is naturally occurring in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Western Pacific. The original wild fish typically comes from these regions.
  • Max Size: They can reach a maximum size of approximately 3 inches (7.6 cm).
  • Temperature Range: Chalk Gobies thrive in a temperature range of 78-82°F (25-28°C).
  • pH Range: They prefer a pH range between 8.1 and 8.4.
  • KH Range: They do well in a KH range of 8-12 dKH.
  • Care Level: Chalk Gobies require moderate care and are considered to be on the delicate side in terms of their care level.
  • Lighting Preference: They do not have specific lighting preferences and can adapt to a variety of lighting conditions.
  • Preferred Food: Chalk Gobies are carnivorous and primarily feed on small crustaceans, such as copepods and amphipods. They can also be supplemented with high-quality frozen or live foods like brine shrimp or mysis shrimp.
  • Behaviour: Chalk Gobies are peaceful and relatively timid fish. They spend much of their time sifting through sand and substrate in search of food. They are known to create burrows in the sand, where they retreat when they feel threatened or need to rest.
  • Suitable for Reef Tanks: Chalk Gobies are generally considered suitable for reef tanks as they do not disturb corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with very small or delicate organisms due to their sand-sifting behaviour.
  • Interesting Facts:
  • Chalk Gobies contribute to the cleanliness and overall health of aquarium substrate by consuming organic matter and tiny organisms. These gobies are popular among aquarists for their unique characteristics and peaceful nature.
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DRY GOODS

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LIVESTOCK = Fish, Critters and Corals

Minimum order value £30Delivery charge £19.99. Delivery days Are Varied At The Moment.  We will contact you to confirm your delivery day. Some geographical restrictions apply See shipping

Aquarium Plants: Are shipped the same as and can be mixed with Dry goods *Free shipping on orders over £50 or £6.99 for orders under £50. Some geographical restrictions may apply.

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The Chalk Goby, Valenciennea sexguttata, as so known as Six Spot Goby, is a small and captivating fish with a maximum size of approximately 3 inches (7.6 cm). This species features a slender body with a pale whitish colouration, which gives it a chalk-like appearance.

Natural Habitat

Chalk Gobies are primarily found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. They inhabit sandy and silty substrates near coral reefs, lagoons, and seagrass beds. These areas provide them with the perfect environment for burrowing and searching for food.

Keeping Chalk Gobies Healthy, Care Level, and Difficulty

Keeping Chalk Gobies healthy requires moderate care, making them suitable for both beginner and intermediate aquarists. They have a moderate difficulty level, as they can be sensitive to poor water conditions. Maintaining proper water quality and stability is essential for their well-being.

Special Requirements and Feeding

Chalk Gobies have specific requirements to thrive in an aquarium. They need a sand substrate that allows them to burrow, mimicking their natural behaviour. Additionally, providing plenty of hiding places, such as rocks or caves, helps create a secure environment for them.

In terms of feeding, Chalk Gobies are predominantly carnivorous. They primarily feed on small crustaceans, such as copepods and amphipods, found in the sand or gravel substrate. Supplementing their diet with: large pellets, high-quality frozen or live foods, like brine shrimp or mysis shrimp, is recommended to ensure proper nutrition.

How Many Should I Keep?

Chalk Gobies, or Six spot Gobies, are relatively peaceful and can be kept singly or in small groups. If keeping multiple individuals, it is crucial to provide sufficient space to prevent territorial disputes. A general guideline is to allocate at least 10 gallons (38 litters) of water per Chalk Goby in the aquarium.

Lighting Preference

Chalk Gobies do not have specific lighting requirements. They will adapt well to a variety of lighting conditions, ranging from low to moderate intensity. Providing a natural day-night cycle with a suitable lighting duration is beneficial for their overall well-being.

Suitable Tank Mates

Chalk Gobies are generally compatible with a wide range of peaceful tank mates. Some suitable companions include small reef-safe fish, such as gobies, blennies, and small wrasses. It is advisable to avoid aggressive or large species that may intimidate or harm the Chalk Goby.

Sand Sifting Goby: Feeding Behaviour and Usefulness

The Chalk Goby plays a crucial role in aquariums by sifting through the sand bed in search of food. Using its specialized mouth and gill structures, it takes in mouthfuls of sand and expels it, while simultaneously filtering out tiny organisms and organic matter. This feeding behaviour not only helps to clean and aerate the substrate but also promotes nutrient cycling within the aquarium. By consuming detritus and algae, the Chalk Goby contributes to maintaining a healthier and more balanced aquatic environment.

Reproduction in the Wild

During courtship, the male chalk goby performs an elaborate display to attract a female mate. This display includes darting movements, fin flaring, and colouration changes. Once the female is ready to spawn, she releases eggs that the male fertilizes externally by releasing sperm over them. The fertilized eggs are then carried away by the ocean currents, where they hatch into larvae.

Breeding Valenciennea sexguttata

Breeding the Chalk Goby in captivity is a challenging yet rewarding endeavour. Here is a detailed breakdown of the breeding process:

  1. Set up:

Create a separate breeding tank with appropriate water parameters, including a temperature around 78-82°F (25-28°C) and salinity between 1.022 and 1.026 specific gravity. Provide suitable hiding places, such as PVC pipes or small tubes, for the gobies to construct their burrows.

  1. Courtship/Spawning:

The male initiates courtship by displaying vibrant colours, flaring fins, and performing zigzag movements to attract the female. Once the female is receptive, she will release a cloud of eggs, and the male will immediately fertilize them with his sperm. It is crucial to monitor the spawning closely and remove the eggs promptly to prevent predation.

  1. Rearing:

The fertilized eggs will hatch into larvae within 24-48 hours. Transfer the larvae to a specialized rearing tank with appropriate water conditions, including temperature, salinity, and lighting. Provide suitable live food, such as rotifers and copepods, to feed the larvae during their early stages. As they grow, gradually introduce newly hatched brine shrimp to their diet.

Sexual Dimorphism

Chalk Gobies do not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, making it challenging to distinguish between males and females based on physical appearance alone. However, males may display more vibrant colours and exhibit more pronounced courtship behaviours compared to females.

Distribution

Chalk Gobies, Valenciennea sexguttata, are native to the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. While there are captive-bred and line-bred strains of Chalk Gobies available in the aquarium trade, the original fish originate from the wild populations found in the Indo-Pacific.

Summary

The Chalk Goby Valenciennea sexguttata is a small and visually striking fish with a chalk-like appearance. With its sand-sifting feeding behaviour, it contributes to substrate maintenance and overall water quality in aquariums. In the wild, Chalk Gobies engage in intricate courtship and external fertilization for reproduction. Breeding Chalk Gobies in captivity requires specific setup conditions and attentive care during courtship, spawning, and rearing stages. While they do not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, males may display more vibrant colours and perform elaborate courtship displays.

2 reviews for Chalk Goby

  1. Ian Freeman (verified owner)

    Received the exact fish as ordered. My Goby came well packed and had no stress at all. Its swimming around the top of my tank a little nervous but I hope that goes within a couple of days and it can then integrate and be comfortable where it wants to be. Would recommend this company to anyone based on my experience ive had. 10 out of 10

  2. GARY MCLEAN (verified owner)

    Received my chalk goby in excellent condition,well packaged and very pleased. Hid for a few hours but is no out and about with his tank mates in qt.
    My only grumble would be with the courier tracking service which just kept saying they had received it,but never updated even after I knew it had been delivered.

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Dry Goods Delivery.

The store has provided information regarding their order dispatch and estimated delivery times. Here are the key details:

  1. Dispatch Timeframe: Orders placed before 2pm will be dispatched on the same day. Orders placed after 2pm will be dispatched on the next working day.
  2. Delivery Date and Time Guarantee: While the store aims to dispatch orders promptly, they cannot guarantee a specific delivery date and time. As the delivery process relies on couriers, there may be factors beyond their control that could affect the delivery timeframe.
  3. 1st Class Mail: For orders sent via 1st Class mail, the aim is to have them delivered on the next working day after dispatch.
  4. 2nd Class Mail: Orders sent via 2nd Class mail typically take approximately 2-3 working days for delivery after dispatch.
  5. APC Next Day Delivery: APC Next Day delivery is available for UK mainland postcodes. It is usually delivered on the next working day after dispatch. However, please note that items being delivered to more remote areas may require additional time for delivery.

It’s important to keep in mind that while the store strives to provide efficient delivery services, unforeseen circumstances or external factors could potentially impact delivery times. For further details or specific inquiries about delivery, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Livestock Delivery.

The store maintains specific policies regarding the delivery of livestock. Here are the key points:

  1. Licensed Livestock Courier: The store exclusively uses a licensed livestock courier for shipping fish and coral. This approach is chosen to ensure responsible and ethical transportation of the livestock.
  2. Livestock Shipping Fee: The livestock shipping fee charged to customers of £19.99 does not cover the true cost, and therefore, there is a minimum spend requirement of £30.00 before the option for livestock shipping becomes available.
  3. Pre-Arranged Delivery: The store never ships livestock without first arranging a suitable delivery day. Before dispatching the livestock, the store must confirm the agreed-upon delivery day with the customer.
  4. Saturday Delivery Confirmation: Customers who choose Saturday delivery must have their availability confirmed for the upcoming Saturday before the store sends out the livestock. This confirmation ensures that the livestock can be received promptly.
  5. Failure to wait for livestock: Not waiting for livestock, even if there is a reasonable delay, or cancelling an order after it has been dispatched will lead to you incurring charges for an emergency return to the base. Additionally, any losses of livestock will also be charged to you. Please be aware that the items you are ordering are living creatures – livestock. We kindly ask that you refrain from ordering livestock if you are unable to accommodate the possibility of a delayed delivery.

    These terms and conditions are a fundamental aspect of our policy. Our primary goal is to dissuade individuals who could react negatively to a delayed delivery and subsequently request order cancellations. It is of utmost importance to underscore that your order pertains to living creatures, not mere inanimate objects. In the event of an occasional delay, it is crucial that you respond in a rational and responsible manner, taking into account the welfare of the livestock. We kindly request that you refrain from placing an order for livestock if you tend to react strongly to such situations. By proceeding with the order of livestock, you indicate your acceptance and agreement to abide by these specified terms and conditions.

  6. Signature Requirement: Livestock deliveries require a signature upon receipt and cannot be left in a safe location. This precaution ensures proper handling and the well-being of the livestock.
  7. Geographic Restrictions: The courier has strict geographic restrictions for livestock deliveries. Unfortunately, deliveries to Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly, Channel Islands, and certain Scottish offshore postcodes may not be possible. Customers are encouraged to contact the store via email to confirm if livestock delivery is available in their area.
  8. Minimum Order Value and Order Cancellations: The store has a minimum order value of £30 for livestock shipping. Additionally, the store reserves the right to cancel orders that are deemed high-risk or involve a high number of single tropical freshwater fish species.

It is essential for customers to familiarize themselves with these policies before making a purchase. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or reach out to the store directly for clarification.

Livestock Geographical Exemptions.

The store has specific geographical exemptions for livestock deliveries. Here is a list of the areas and postcodes where livestock delivery is not available:

  1. Islands: Livestock cannot be delivered to the Shetlands, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man.
  2. Postcodes: Livestock delivery is not available to the following postcodes:
  • AB30 to AB39, AB41 to AB45, AB51 to AB56
  • DD8 to DD10
  • BT all
  • DG3 to DG9, DG12 to DG14
  • KA18 to KA19, KA26, KA29 to KA30
  • HS all
  • IM all
  • JE all
  • ZE all
  • KW15 to KW17
  • TD9
  • FK17 to FK21
  • GY all
  • KA26, to KA28
  • PA20 to PA38, PA41 to PA49, PA60 to PA61, PA76 to PA78
  • TR21, to TR25
  • PH3 to PH26, PH30 to PH44
  • IV all

Customers residing in these areas should be aware that livestock delivery is not available to their location.

We can ship livestock to the Isle of Wight, this area is subject to a surcharge.

For further information or specific inquiries about livestock delivery to a particular area, customers are advised to contact the store directly for clarification.

Cancellation.

According to the store’s policy, customers have the right to cancel an order within 14 working days of receiving the goods. To initiate the cancellation, the goods must be returned to the store in new and unused condition, adhering to their Returns Policy.

Important points regarding the return process are as follows:

  1. Return Condition: The goods must be returned in new and unused condition, as originally received. It is important to ensure that the goods are in the same condition as when they were sent out.
  2. Return Timeframe: The goods must be received by the store within 21 days of notifying them about the cancellation. During this time, customers are responsible for any loss or damage that may occur during the return shipping process.
  3. Refund Process: Once the store receives the goods in new and unused condition, they will initiate the refund process. The purchase price will be refunded to the customer.
  4. Return Condition Inspection: If the returned goods arrive in a condition that is less than what they were sent out in, the store reserves the right to return the goods to the customer, and no refund will be processed.

It is essential for customers to carefully review the store’s Returns Policy and follow the specified procedures to ensure a smooth and successful return and refund process. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Returns.

According to the store’s return policy, the following guidelines should be followed for returning goods:

  1. Use Returns Form: Customers need to use the store’s provided returns form to initiate the return process. This form helps the store acknowledge that the goods are being sent back.
  2. Return for Testing: If the goods are being returned for testing, the customer is responsible for covering the return shipping expenses.
  3. Refund of Postage Fees: The store will only refund postage fees if the order arrives damaged or becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of purchase. Proof of posting is important, and customers should ensure the goods are well-packed and obtain proof of posting as the goods remain their responsibility until received by the store.
  4. Refund of Postage Costs for Replacement: If goods are being returned within 7 days of purchase under the Replacement Policy, the store can refund postage costs. However, the customer needs to agree on a delivery service with the store in advance, and only standard or tracked shipping fees will be refunded. The store cannot refund the cost of any special delivery service.
  5. Non-Refundable Postage: Postage costs for goods returned for any other reason than those mentioned above are non-refundable. The store reserves the right to deduct the original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Mistaken Purchases: If a customer has made a mistake in their purchase, they need to return the goods to the store. The customer is responsible for the return shipping costs in such cases.

It is important for customers to carefully follow the store’s return procedures and terms and conditions. For further details or specific inquiries, customers should refer to the store’s website or contact the store directly.

Replacements

If customers receive faulty goods, the following guidelines apply according to the store’s policy:

  1. Notification of Faulty Goods: Customers must notify the store within 7 working days if they receive faulty goods. This notification should be made as soon as possible.
  2. Replacement Parts: If possible, the store will dispatch replacement parts for the faulty goods.
  3. Return of Goods: If replacement parts are not possible, the store may request customers to return the faulty goods in accordance with their Returns Policy. The specific return procedures and conditions should be followed.
  4. Verification of Damage: Once the store receives the returned goods, they will verify the damage. If the damage is confirmed, the store will supply the required replacements.
  5. Return Postage Costs: If the goods returned to the store are found to be in good working order, the store is not able to refund the return postage costs. Additionally, the store reserves the right to deduct their original postage cost from any applicable refund.
  6. Consequential Loss or Damage: The store cannot take responsibility for any consequential loss or damage that arises directly or indirectly from the goods supplied.

Customers should carefully review and adhere to the store’s Returns Policy and procedures for returning faulty goods. For further clarification or specific inquiries, customers should consult the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Manufacturer’s Guarantees

The store works in collaboration with manufacturers to ensure that their guarantees are honored, and they make their best efforts to resolve issues within the warranty period. The following guidelines apply to refunds and replacements:

  1. Postage Costs under Manufacturer’s Guarantee: Postage costs can only be refunded if the goods are returned to the store within 7 days of the original purchase, as per the manufacturer’s guarantee.
  2. Refund of Postage Costs for Faulty Goods: The store will refund postage costs for guarantee/warranty returns only if the product becomes faulty within the first 4 weeks of receipt.
  3. Replacements with Manufacturer Authorization: Replacements, whether parts or goods, can only be offered when authorized by the manufacturer. Customers should contact the store for further guidance in such cases.
  4. Prior Approval for Returns: Goods should not be returned to the store without prior approval. Customers need to contact the store and obtain approval before returning any items.
  5. Replacement of Glass or Ceramic Items: Glass or ceramic items can only be replaced if the store is notified within 48 hours of receiving the delivery.
  6. Replacement of Glass Bulbs/Tubes: Glass bulbs or tubes can only be replaced if they become faulty within 14 days.

Customers should note and adhere to these guidelines to ensure a smooth and efficient resolution of any issues with their purchased items. For specific inquiries or further information, customers are advised to refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.

Breakages

According to the store’s policy, customers have the following responsibilities regarding breakages:

  1. Checking Goods on Arrival: It is the customer’s responsibility to thoroughly check the goods upon arrival for any damage. This should be done before signing for the parcel. If the parcel appears damaged, it is advised not to sign for it.
  2. Reporting Breakages: Any breakages or damages must be reported to the store within 48 hours of receiving the goods. It is important to promptly notify the store to initiate the resolution process.

By carefully inspecting the goods upon arrival and reporting any breakages within the specified timeframe, customers can ensure that appropriate actions are taken to address the issue. For specific instructions on reporting breakages or further information, customers should refer to the store’s terms and conditions or contact the store directly.