Red Spotted Goby - Rhinogobius rubromaculatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Red Spotted Gobies (Rhinogobius rubromaculatus) are a distinct species within the Gobiidae family, indigenous to the freshwater streams and rivers of East Asia. This small yet visually striking goby is noted for its vibrant colouration and dynamic behaviour, making it a fascinating subject for both scientific study and the aquarium hobby. With its captivating appearance and engaging personality, these Gobies offer an enriching experience for aquarists seeking to explore the diversity of freshwater Gobies.
Red Spotted Gobies are ideally suited to cohabitation with other peaceful, temperate fish species that thrive in environments with significant water currents. Suitable tank mates include various Danio and Devario species, White Cloud Mountain Minnows, and Hillstream Loaches.
While male Red Spotted Gobies may engage in occasional sparring, a well-structured aquarium with ample space and numerous hiding spots generally mitigates any serious issues. In smaller aquarium setups, it is recommended to house only one male-female pair to prevent territorial disputes. Given their predilection for small live and frozen foods, caution is advised when housing them with very small fish or fry, as they may pose a predatory risk.
The natural habitat of the Red Spotted Goby is rich in oxygen, and their aquarium should replicate these conditions with robust filtration and, if necessary, additional powerheads to ensure a high flow rate and adequate oxygenation.
Their modified pelvic fins form a suction mechanism, enabling them to adhere to smooth surfaces in rapid currents. The aquarium setup should include a substrate of fine gravel or sand, complemented with cobbles and flat stones to emulate a natural stream bed. Incorporating robust plants capable of withstanding strong water flow can further enhance the habitat.
The Red Spotted Goby's striking appearance, marked by prominent ruby red spots across its body and deep red and blue hues in the dorsal and pectoral fins, is a defining feature of this species and contributes to its aesthetic appeal in an aquatic setting.
Red Spotted Goby Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Red Spotted Gobies exhibit notable sexual dimorphism, making it relatively straightforward to distinguish between males and females. The males are characterized by their more vivid colouration, particularly during the breeding season, with enhanced red spots and brighter overall hues that serve as a display for attracting mates. In contrast, females tend to have a more subdued colour palette and lack the intense red spots found in their male counterparts. Additionally, males generally exhibit a larger and more robust body structure compared to females.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Rhinogobius rubromaculatus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1996 |
| Other Names | Ruby Spotted Goby, Red Spot Goby |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Gobiiformes |
| Family | Oxudercidae |
| Genus | Rhinogobius |
| Origins | Taiwan |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Pairs |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 8.0 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| TDS | 90 - 215 |
| ℉ | 64 - 75 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 18 - 24 |
Natural Habitat
The Red Spotted Goby is a species indigenous to East Asia, specifically found in the Tadu River of Taichung County and the Linbian River in southern Taiwan. This species is typically associated with shallow and clear water environments characterized by a moderate current, such as pools and small brooks. The preferred habitat of the Red-spotted Goby includes sandy or gravelly substrates, complemented by the presence of stones and rocks. These environments not only provide essential physical structures for their foraging activities but also facilitate their distinct territorial behaviours.
Breeding
The reproductive behaviour of the Red Spotted Goby follows a distinct and ritualistic pattern. During the spawning process, the male undertakes the task of excavating a small depression beneath a rocky overhang to construct a shallow cave-like structure. This serves as the spawning site, to which the male entices the female through an intricate courtship display.
When the female is ready to spawn, she enters this prepared area, where she lays relatively large eggs on the cave's ceiling. Post-spawning, the male assumes a protective role, remaining within the cave to guard and aerate the eggs. Upon hatching, it is advisable to remove the adult fish from the tank to safeguard the fry from potential predation.
The fry demonstrates rapid growth and requires a diet of suitably sized live foods, such as newly hatched brine shrimp and microworm, to ensure proper development and nutrition. This careful attention to the breeding process and subsequent care of the offspring is vital for the successful cultivation of Red Spotted Gobies in a controlled aquatic environment.
Diet & Feeding
In the wild, Red Spotted Gobies primarily sustain themselves on a diet composed of small invertebrates and zooplankton. In captivity, replicating this diet is crucial for their health and well-being. A balanced diet for Red-Spotted Gobies in aquarium settings should include a variety of live and frozen foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and microworms, to mimic their natural diet.
Additionally, high-quality formulated foods specifically designed for small carnivorous fish can be incorporated to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients. It's important to feed them in small, manageable quantities to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality. This approach not only caters to their nutritional needs but also encourages natural feeding behaviours, contributing to the overall health and vitality of these captivating fish.
Other Gobies
10 More Gobies Profiles
View All