Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpurensis)
Scientific Name: Stiphodon atropurpurensis
Common Name: Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby
Origin: New Guinea, Southeast Asia
Size: 2 - 2.5 inches (5 - 6 cm)
Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C)
pH: 7.0 - 8.0 (Neutral to Slightly Alkaline)
Hardness: 4-12 dGH (Soft to Moderately Hard Water)
Care Level: Moderate
Diet: Algae, Biofilm, Sinking Pellets, Frozen or Live Foods
Description
The Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpurensis) is a stunning freshwater species prized for its vibrant electric blue coloration. Native to the fast-flowing mountain streams of New Guinea and surrounding areas, this small but dazzling fish adds a pop of color to any aquarium. With its energetic and peaceful nature, it is a perfect choice for those looking to create a dynamic, peaceful community tank.
The Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby grows to a maximum size of 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm), making it an excellent option for nano tanks and smaller aquariums. It thrives in a moderate to strong current, replicating the river systems of its native habitat. The bright blue body of this goby shimmers in the light, especially the males, which showcase the most vibrant hues during breeding season.
Care Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons for 1-2 gobies. Larger tanks provide more room for movement and multiple species.
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72°F to 78°F (22°C to 26°C)
- pH: 7.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4-12 dGH)
- Water Flow: A moderate to strong current is essential for this species, replicating the fast-moving water of its native streams. A sponge filter or powerhead will help maintain water movement and oxygenation.
Diet
The Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby is primarily herbivorous and feeds on algae, biofilm, and small invertebrates. Supplement their diet with high-quality sinking pellets, algae wafers, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They are grazers and enjoy picking at the biofilm on rocks, substrate, and plants, so a well-maintained tank with ample algae growth will help keep them healthy.
Tank Setup & Maintenance
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel is ideal. Ensure there are rocks and driftwood for hiding spots and foraging opportunities. The substrate should be smooth to prevent injury as they graze and move around.
- Filtration: A reliable gentle filtration system is necessary, with a focus on maintaining good water movement. A sponge filter or gentle powerhead is recommended.
- Plants: Hardy plants like Java Fern, Anubias, or Hornwort can be added. The Electric Blue Neon Goby enjoys areas with nooks and crannies to hide and rest.
Behavior & Temperament
Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Gobies are peaceful, diurnal fish that enjoy grazing on algae and exploring the tank. While they are bottom dwellers, they are not territorial and can be kept with other peaceful species. They may become somewhat territorial during feeding or breeding, so ensure that the tank has enough space for them to spread out.
These fish are excellent jumpers, so it is essential to have a secure lid on the aquarium to prevent escapes.
Ideal Tank Mates
The Electric Blue Neon Goby is best kept with peaceful community fish such as:
- Corydoras Catfish
- Neon Tetras
- Otocinclus Catfish
- Shrimp (Amano or Cherry Shrimp)
- Small Livebearers (Endler’s Livebearers or Guppies)
Avoid aggressive species such as Cichlids or large, predatory fish that might see the Goby as food.
Why Choose the Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby?
- Vibrant Coloration: Its stunning electric blue hue is a showstopper, making it a prized addition to any tank.
- Peaceful Nature: Perfect for community tanks with other small, peaceful fish.
- Unique Behavior: A fascinating bottom-dweller that exhibits grazing behavior and foraging habits.
- Ideal for Nano Tanks: Its small size and adaptability make it an excellent choice for nano aquariums with proper care and tankmates.
Bring the electric beauty of the Electric Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby to your aquarium today and enjoy the vibrant colors and unique charm of this captivating species!
The Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby is a sought after freshwater fish and has a striking appearance (especially the males). They are a good algae eater as well and underrated beautiful fish! They are a gorgeous fish with awesome colors and love fast water flow. They thrive in planted tanks and their colors brighten up once they settle into their new homes. Max size is around 2".
Current size is about 1 - 1.5". amazing little bright blue Gobies! From fast moving streams their pelvic fins have evolved to fuse together in to a suction cup like form. They adhere to the rocks and love bio film.
