Blue Neon Goby

The Blue Neon Goby from Asia is a species of goby that is quite rare in aquaristics. It grows to about 5-7 cm long and is found in nature in fast-flowing, clear water. Due to its slim body shape and the pelvic fin that has been converted into a suction disc, it is ideally adapted to this habitat. The Blue Neon Goby owes its name to its appetite for algae on the one hand and its iridescent neon blue color on the other, which makes it a great eye-catcher in the aquarium.

Care in the aquarium

With a body length of up to 7 cm, Stiphodon atropurpureus requires a tank with an edge length of at least 80 cm. This slightly more demanding goby prefers aquariums with good currents or areas with strong currents and oxygen-rich, clean water. It also feels comfortable in the company of its conspecifics and should be kept in a harem or in a group of 5 or more animals. They are usually very peaceful within their own species and towards other fish, but males can occasionally quarrel during the mating season, which is why the tank should be well structured and offer enough opportunities for retreat.

Feeding

Stiphodon atropurpureus eats mainly algae growth and biofilm. Appropriate flake or granulated food as well as live and frozen food are also readily accepted.

Sexual characteristics and reproduction

The males of the Blue Neon Goby are more intensely colored than the females and shine in a richer neon blue. Breeding in a freshwater aquarium is not possible because the fish larvae need brackish water to develop.