Freshwater Gobies General Description

The name Goby is given to fishes belonging to the family Gobiidae which is one of the largest families of fishes in the world, containing more than 2,000 species. Most gobies remain fairly small, growing no more than 4 inches in length, with some species growing less than 1 inch long. Each species is unique, but freshwater gobies are generally peaceful community fish that can be kept with other community species.

Freshwater gobies are generally peaceful community fish that can be kept with other community species.

Origins

Most gobies are saltwater fishes or brackish species, though a select few have completely adapted to freshwater habitats. Most freshwater gobies like the Knight Goby and the Bumblee Goby come from Asian origins where they can be found in densely planted environments with plenty of rockwork.

Color

Gobies are a highly colorful family of fishes and while marine species are some of the most colorful, freshwater gobies exhibit a variety of colors as well. The Bumblebee Goby, for example, has a black and yellow striped body while the Knight Goby is silver with black spots.

Maintenance and Care

Though the exact requirements vary from one species of Goby to another, most freshwater gobies prefer warm waters in the 72°F to 84°F temperature range. The ideal pH range for freshwater gobies is generally between 7.5 and 8.5 with a water hardness recommendation ranging from 9 to 19 KH. Gobies prefer planted tanks with rocks and other décor items in which they can hide.

Feeding

For the most part, gobies will accept a wide variety of foods including flakes, pellets, insects, and other fresh foods. In the wild, gobies are considered either carnivorous or omnivorous, so choose commercial foods that are designed for carnivorous fish.

There are over 2,000 species of Goby that exist but only a few are adapted to freshwater environments.

Breeding Info

All freshwater gobies are egg-laying species, though the details of their breeding behavior may vary slightly. Generally, female gobies lay their eggs over rocky areas or substrate where the male will fertilize them. Male gobies often guard the eggs before hatching which generally takes about 4 days after spawning.

Aquarium Varieties

There are over 2,000 species of Goby that exist but only a few are adapted to freshwater environments. Some of the most popular freshwater gobies include the Bumblebee Goby, Knight Goby, Dragon Goby, Cobalt Goby, and the Marbled Goby.

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