Gobiesox strumosus - The Skilletfish aka Clingfish is aptly named, but its odd appearance is not even the most interesting thing about it. Skilletfish use suction cup like pelvic fins to stick to rocks in strong tides (or your aquarium glass). This benthic nature makes captive bred Skilletfish easier to interact with, and they can even be trained to take food from your fingers. Some will even learn to trust their humans so much, they'll stick to your hand and seem to enjoy your company.
This species is incredibly hardy and able to survive in some extreme conditions when compared to other tropical aquarium fish. In nature they endure a wide range of temperatures and intense currents. They can even spend hours clinging underneath rocks out of the water at low tide!
Feeding
Skilletfish are not picky when it comes to feeding and will take most carnivore aquarium foods. We recommend a varied diet including Easy Reefs DKI pellets and Masstick and also frozen foods like Spirulina brine shrimp, and small mysis. Large adults can even take small krill.
Compatibility
This is a small fish with a big mouth, but it is peaceful and compatible with all but the smallest nano gobies or krill-sized shrimp as an adult. They can even be kept in small groups with other skilletfish. These fish are completely coral safe.
These fish are expert camouflage artists and are small at sale size. If you want to keep a close eye on them, use an acclimation box designed for very small fish or a "guppy net" to corral them while they grow.