Blue Neon Goby

Blue Neon Goby (Stiphodon Atropurpureus)

The Blue Neon Goby, also known as Electric Blue Neon Dwarf Goby, is a small, vibrant, and unique freshwater fish known for its striking blue coloration. These gobies display a beautiful iridescent blue sheen along their bodies, making them a visually appealing addition to an aquarium.

Hailing from shallow, transparent, fast-flowing waters, this fish is sensitive to deteriorating water quality, making regular aquarium upkeep essential. The Blue Neon Dwarf Goby requires an aquarium with a strong water flow (10-15 times tank volume turnover per hour) and exceptionally clean, clear water.

They are a peaceful species, reaching a maximum size of around 2 inches (5 cm) in length. They are best kept in small groups or schools, with a minimum group size of 3 to 5 individuals.

Most rasboras, tetras, minnows, hillstream loaches, smaller Danios, and other small, non-aggressive fish make suitable tankmates for the Blue Neon Dwarf Goby. Peaceful bottom-dwelling fish are also viable options, but care should be taken to ensure the docile Blue Neon Dwarf Goby isn't outcompeted for food.

Their diet consists mainly of algae and biofilm, making them herbivores. Supplementing their diet with high-quality vegetable-based flake or pellet foods and blanched vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, is essential. A regular filter sponge weighted down in the aquarium can provide an additional food source.

The Blue Neon Goby thrives in a well-planted tank with fine gravel or sand, with plenty of hiding spaces, such as aged driftwood, water-worn rocks and pebbles of varying sizes, and caves. When housing multiple males of one or more species, arrange the rocks to create various hiding spots and obstructed lines of sight, which will help minimize the chances of excessive aggression.

Male Blue Neon Dwarf Gobies tend to burrow into the substrate when sleeping or spawning, so it's best to place larger rocks directly on the tank base to avoid any risk of collapse. They do not use the same burrow every night, and females have been observed taking up residence in unoccupied ones.

The Blue Neon Dwarf Goby is a resilient and engaging fish, provided it is housed in a mature, well-maintained aquarium with abundant biofilm and algae growth, as well as strong water flow. It will not disturb aquarium plants. In fact, Anubias species are an ideal plant choice to accompany this goby, as they can promote substantial biofilm and algae growth in an aquarium with moderate to high lighting.

High water flow is crucial, as they are naturally found in streams and enjoy swimming against the current. Most importantly, the water must be clean and well-oxygenated at all times. Use either an oversized filter, additional powerheads, flow pumps, or airstones.

A minimum aquarium size of 20 gallons is recommended for a pair or 30+ gallons for a group. Maintain a high water flow and ensure good water quality, with a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C), a pH of 6.5 to 7.5, and a hardness of 4-12 dGH.