Bumblebee Goby

Bumblebee Goby (Brachygobius Doriae)

Bumblebee Gobies are territorial and not ideal to have in community tanks and are best kept in a species-only set-up.

The Bumblebee Goby is a small and intriguing brackish water fish with a distinct black and yellow striped pattern resembling a bumblebee. This captivating fish typically grows to around 1.5 inches in length.

Bumblebee Gobies can exhibit quarrelsome behavior towards each other. It is advisable to maintain a larger group of at least 8 to evenly distribute territorial disputes and prevent a single fish from becoming a constant target. Smaller groups may struggle with this dynamic. To accommodate these fish, provide an abundance of caves and hiding spots with obstructed lines of sight for them to establish their territories. Ideally, offer two or three hiding places per fish to minimize aggression, especially among males.

Bumblebee Gobies are carnivorous and often only accept live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. However, a few have been known to accept sinking pellets occasionally.

A mature aquarium with a soft sand substrate, preferably fine coral sand, is recommended to maintain hard and alkaline water conditions. Use smooth rocks, large shells, driftwood tangles, and dense clusters of sturdy plants to create numerous hiding places. Robust vegetation, such as Anubias and Vallisneria, can tolerate harder water.

Effective filtration is crucial, but water movement should be gentle. Frequent, small water changes help minimize nitrate levels, which is particularly important for this sensitive species. If you're keeping Bumblebee Gobies in brackish water, use high-quality marine salt for water changes and monitor salinity using a hydrometer.

A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended, with a gentle filtration system and stable water conditions. Maintain a pH of 7.0-8.5, hardness of 12-25 dGH, a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C), and recommended salinity of around 1.002-1.010 specific gravity.