🧬 Origins and Classification
Scientific Name: Tateurndina ocellicauda
Family: Eleotridae
Peacock Gudgeon Goby is a brightly colored freshwater fish that originates from the clear streams of Papua New Guinea. Known for its calm personality and striking colors, the Peacock Gudgeon Goby is a favorite for community aquariums where hobbyists want something unique yet easy to care for.
🎨 Appearance
Color:
- Vibrant shades of blue, yellow, and red
- Thin red stripes across the body
- A distinctive black “eye spot” near the tail
Structure:
- Slim, elegant body with rounded fins
- Males show deeper colors and a slightly larger head
- Females have a fuller belly and softer color tones
Size:
Grows to about 2.5–3 inches.
Lifespan:
Lives around 4–5 years with proper care.
🏡 Tank Requirements
Tank Size:
Minimum 15 gallons, especially when keeping a pair or small group.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72–79°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Soft to moderately hard water
Lighting:
Moderate lighting brings out their natural iridescent colors.
Habitat Setup:
- Provide caves, driftwood, and small hiding spaces
- Use gentle plants like Java Fern, Anubias, or floating plants
- Keep open areas for free swimming
🍽️ Diet
Type: Carnivorous
Foods:
- High-quality micro pellets
- Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
- Insect-based foods help enhance bright colors
Feeding Tips:
Feed 1–2 small meals per day.
🤝 Behavior and Compatibility
Temperament:
Peaceful, curious, and calm.
Tank Mates:
- Great with tetras, rasboras, guppies, corydoras, shrimp
- Avoid large or aggressive fish
Grouping:
Can be kept alone, in pairs, or in small groups.
Males may display to each other but remain peaceful.
💡 Care Notes
The Peacock Gudgeon Goby thrives in clean, well-filtered water with consistent parameters.
Weekly 20–30% water changes keep them healthy and help maintain their bright coloring.
Providing both hiding spaces and open areas ensures they stay active and comfortable.
This species adds a vibrant splash of color and a very gentle personality to any freshwater tropical aquarium, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced fish keepers.