Prehistoric Dragon Goby

Prehistoric Dragon Goby (Gobioides broussonnetii)

The Prehistoric Dragon Goby, also known as Dragon Goby and Violet Goby, is a fascinating, elongated fish featuring a distinct eel-like appearance. This intriguing species sports a grayish body adorned with a series of dark vertical stripes, giving it a prehistoric, dragon-like look.

Adult Prehistoric Dragon Gobies reach up to 16 inches long in captivity. However, fish kept in large tanks are more likely to reach upwards of 24 inches.

They are generally peaceful and will not eat even the smallest of tankmates, making them suitable for larger community tanks with other peaceful to semi-aggressive fish but can be somewhat territorial towards their own kind. Likewise, other vigorous or aggressive species will easily out-competed Prehistoric Dragon Gobies at feeding time. Other peaceful brackish fish can share the same space with this species without any issues. Medium-sized fish are best such as Monos, Archers, and Bichir.

Prehistoric Dragon Goby is primarily nocturnal. These fish tend to be more active during the night and may hide or rest during the day. Providing ample hiding places and a dimly lit environment can help them feel more comfortable in their tank during daytime hours. If you observe them at night, you’ll often find them sifting through the substrate for bits of food.

Prehistoric Dragon Gobies feed mainly on filamentous algae and detritus in nature, filtering these small morsels out of its turbulent, nutrient-rich natural waters. They feed by sifting through the substrate and using their teeth to scrape algae. Their diet should include algae wafers, sinking pellets, nori sheets, spirulina flakes, and the provision of vegetable matter. Frozen and live foods such as bloodworm and brine shrimp can be offered at night. The ideal time to feed Prehistoric Dragon Gobies is at dusk and dawn.

Prehistoric Dragon Gobies prefer a tank habitat that mimics their natural environment. The substrate should consist of several inches of soft sand, as it likes to spend a lot of time at least partially buried. Other hiding places can include plants, driftwood, bogwood, smooth rocks, and lengths of plastic tubing for the fish to hide in. Robust vegetation, such as Anubias, Java Fern, and Vallisneria, can tolerate harder water.

A minimum aquarium size of 60-100 gallons is recommended. Maintain a high water flow and ensure good water quality, with a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C), a pH of 7.0 to 9.0, a hardness of 8-20 dGH, and recommended salinity of around 1.005-1.012 specific gravity.

These fish are sensitive to chemical changes, including high concentrations of ammonia and nitrates. The water should be kept clean with efficient filtration, and the tank should have a secure lid to prevent escape.