Blue Neon Goby - Stiphodon atropurpureus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Blue Neon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpureusis) is a relatively rare and aesthetically pleasing species known for its peaceful nature and resilience. They are well-suited to established nano or densely planted community aquariums, with a careful selection of compatible tankmates being crucial. The species exhibits a distinct social structure, with males typically being solitary and females tending to group loosely. Thus, an ideal aquarium setup would include a single male accompanied by two or more females.
Suitable tankmates for the Blue Neon Goby include other small, peaceful species such as various Gobies, White Cloud Mountain Minnows, Vietnamese Cardinal Minnows, Neon Green Rasboras, small Danios, Tetras, Hillstream Loaches, and Dwarf Shrimp. Corydoras, being peaceful bottom dwellers, can also coexist with these Gobies, though care must be taken to ensure that the more passive species are not deprived of food. It is advisable to avoid larger or more aggressive fish, like Cichlids, which could disrupt the serene environment necessary for the Blue Neon Gobies.
The optimal aquarium setup for these Gobies should feature sand or fine smooth gravel substrates to accommodate their digging behaviour, along with variously sized smooth rocks to establish territories and potential spawning sites. While plants are not essential to replicate their natural habitat, incorporating hardy varieties such as Anubias, Bolbitis, or ferns can be beneficial.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in the aquarium, as Blue Neon Gobies are natural aufwuchs grazers, feeding on a dense layer of microorganisms, algae, and biofilm that forms on rocks and surfaces in their habitat. High lighting conditions are conducive to the growth of biofilm and algae, providing a natural food source for the Gobies. However, as this environment takes time to develop in an aquarium, it is important to ensure they receive adequate nutrition during the establishment phase. Additionally, maintaining clean and well-oxygenated water conditions is essential. This may require the use of oversized filters, flow pumps, airstones, or additional powerheads, alongside regular water changes, to sustain an environment conducive to the health and well-being of the Blue Neon Gobies.
Neon Blue Gobies exhibit a striking bicolour pattern, predominantly featuring shades of blue with maroon overtones. Their moniker, 'Blue Neon Gobies,' stems from their tendency to develop a vibrant neon blue-purple colouration when they are content and well-adjusted to their environment. In certain male variants of this species, there is a tendency to display a more pronounced white colouration. Females, on the other hand, typically exhibit more subdued hues, ranging from less intense colours to sometimes even a pinkish-red shade. It is also observed that, particularly in their juvenile stage or during the initial acclimatization period in a new environment, these Gobies may present more black and white characteristics, as opposed to the blue for which they are named.
Blue Neon Goby Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Sexual dimorphism in Neon Blue Gobies is quite pronounced, allowing for straightforward identification of males and females. The males of this species are characterized by a dark grey body colour, complemented by a striking lateral bar ranging from bright blue to greenish.
This bar can appear almost white in dominant males or those in spawning conditions, making it a distinctive feature. In contrast, females exhibit considerably lighter body colouration and are distinguished by a dark, zig-zag pattern along their lateral lines.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Stiphodon atropurpureus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1927 |
| Other Names | Dwarf Neon Goby, Freshwater Goby, Neon Blue Goby, Cobalt Blue Goby |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Gobiiformes |
| Family | Gobiidae |
| Genus | Stiphodon |
| Origins | Philippines , Japan , Taiwan , Hong Kong , Malaysia , China |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | 2 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.5 - 7.0 |
| GH | 4 - 10 |
| ℉ | 68 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
The Blue Neon Goby exhibits a geographical distribution that is primarily centred in Southeast Asia. This species is endemic to several regions in the Philippines, including Luzon Island, Rizal Province, Mindanao Island, and Lanao del Norte Province. Additionally, its presence extends beyond the Philippines to other parts of Asia, such as Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Micronesia, and the mainland of South China.
These Gobies are typically found in high-altitude biotopes, environments known for their rapidly flowing clear waters interspersed with wider sections of slower-moving currents. The islands they inhabit, often of tropical and volcanic origin, feature distinct aquatic landscapes. Notably, their natural habitats are usually situated above cataracts or waterfalls, indicating a preference for dynamic and oxygen-rich environments. This specific habitat selection underscores the Blue Neon Goby's adaptation to thriving in areas with considerable water movement and clarity.
Breeding
The breeding behaviour of Blue Neon Gobies is intricate and unique, posing significant challenges for successful rearing in captivity. These Gobies exhibit a complex life cycle, where adults inhabit and spawn in freshwater streams. However, the newly hatched larvae are initially pelagic and are carried downstream to the sea. This early developmental phase occurs in marine conditions, where the fry undergoes significant growth before migrating back to freshwater environments.
Females are capable of laying several thousand eggs per spawning event. These minute eggs are affixed to solid surfaces, typically on the underside of rocks, by delicate filaments. The vibrant-coloured male plays a critical role in the spawning process, luring females to his selected nesting site while simultaneously warding off competing males. Spawning behaviour often involves the male diving headfirst into the substrate, a gesture followed by the female at the culmination of the courtship ritual. Post-fertilization, the male diligently guards the eggs during their short incubation period, typically lasting under 24 hours.
Upon hatching, Blue Neon Goby fry emerge as rudimentary larvae, equipped with a substantial yolk sac but lacking functional eyes, a mouth, and an anus. The yolk sac is absorbed within three to four days, a critical period during which the larvae must reach the ocean, hence the necessity for a brief incubation period.
The breeding cycle of these Gobies is seasonally influenced, with a cessation of reproductive activities during the colder months from December to April and peak breeding occurring from June to November. After settling in shallow coastal areas, the larvae undergo morphological changes, losing the notched tip of their caudal fin and commencing their challenging journey upstream.
This migration often involves traversing formidable obstacles, including waterfalls and rapidly flowing stretches of water. The Gobies' pelvic fins, adapted into a suction disc, enable them to cling to hard surfaces and scale steep inclines. This arduous journey back to the adult habitat can span several months. Remarkably, these fish reach sexual maturity within a year, and given their relatively short lifespan of approximately two years, they commence spawning promptly upon reaching suitable breeding grounds. This fascinating life cycle highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Blue Neon Goby in its natural habitat.
Diet & Feeding
In their natural habitat, Blue Neon Gobies primarily subsist on benthic algae and a variety of microorganisms, showcasing their role as bottom feeders in the ecosystem. When kept in aquarium settings, these Gobies can adapt to a diet that includes certain types of sinking dried food products, as well as small live, frozen, or freeze-dried food items.
These may consist of bloodworms, lobster eggs, and decapsulated brine shrimp. However, it is important to note that such food items should be provided sparingly. The digestive system of Blue Neon Gobies is predominantly suited for processing plant-based materials, and an over-reliance on animal protein can lead to digestive issues.
One challenge in keeping Blue Neon Gobies in captivity is their specific oxygen requirements and specialized diet, which can often lead to them being sold in a state of emaciation. Rectifying this condition can be a complex task, requiring careful attention to their dietary needs and the maintenance of optimal water quality to meet their oxygenation needs.
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