Gobies represent one of the largest fish families with over 2,000 varieties. Typically Gobies are small small fish under 4” but larger types do exist that grow to about 1-2 feet in size, though it is rare. They are bottom dwelling fish that spends most of their time hidden among plants, fallen trees and river bottoms. Gobies have a wide range throughout the world from freshwater to brackish water and marine reefs as well. Many of these fish feed on small invertebrates and biofilm with a few larger species that eat smaller fish. A distinct fusion of the pelvic fins are a notable physical trait of Gobies. The fused pelvic fins form a suction cup that the fish use to adhere themselves to various environments. For example many small freshwater Gobies that inhabit rivers use the suction of their fused pelvic fins to hold onto rocks while they eat biofilm in the running river waters.

The Dragon Goby also known as the Violet Goby is an interesting variety of the Goby fish. Originating from the Atlantic coast of North and South American the Dragon Goby prefers bays and river mouths and is kept in a brackish aquarium due to this. With a long appearance similar to an eel they have a distinct dorsal and anal fin that runs the entire length of the body giving them an ancient dragon look. The Dragon Goby has very sharp teeth though they are not used for attacking prey but rather for scraping off algae and biofilm from rocks. A long fish that is known to grow around 24” in the wild but typically does not grow longer than 16” when kept in the aquarium. These Gobies have a beautiful violet body with iridescent plates that cover their lateral line. A mature specimen is truly a sight to behold! Their heads are large and oval shaped adding to the dragon like appearance.

The Dragon Goby is a nocturnal fish that spends most of its time buried in the sand only to come out at night to scavenge for food. They have bad eyesight and rely on their sense of smell to move around. They need a larger aquarium of 55-100 gallons with a soft sandy substrate. The Dragon Goby should be kept in a species only tank as they cannot compete with other more robust species in the aquarium. If multiple Dragon Gobies will be kept in one tank it must be larger (around 150 gallons) as they are territorial among their own kind. These fish are wild caught and do not take to dried foods well, they will need a good supplement of various meaty and vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes to induce natural algae growth within the tank. Frozen blood worms are a good option as well as they have tiny throats. Smaller peaceful fish such as Mollys May co-exist with the Dragon Goby in a large enough tank but due to their poor eyesight semi aggressive fish are not suitable. The Dragon Goby is a beautiful centerpiece fish and with proper care is a very rewarding pet.