Neon Blue Goby Stiphodon Atropurpureus 3cm

Overview

The Neon Blue Goby is a small hillstream goby whose males glow with an electric blue-green lateral band and red-edged dorsal fins, while females wear a subtler dark zigzag stripe. It grazes biofilm from rocks in fast, clear water, clinging on with a pelvic sucker. Found from southern Japan to the Philippines, it suits keepers of well-lit, oxygen-rich stream tanks.

• Adult Size: Around 5 cm (2 in)
• Lifespan: 3–5 years

Origin

• Native to: Southern Japan, Taiwan, southern China, Philippines, Malaysia
• Habitat: Steep, fast coastal streams above waterfalls; bedrock and boulders

Feeding

• Diet: Herbivorous; biofilm grazer
• Preferred Foods: Algae and biofilm, spirulina wafers, algae paste, repashy gel, occasional daphnia
• Feeding Habits: Graze constantly; needs mature, algae-covered rocks

Tank Mates

• Best with: Hillstream loaches, small danios, other Stiphodon, white cloud minnows
• Avoid: Large, boisterous or aggressive fish, slow-water species, algae competitors

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Peaceful
• Territoriality: Males loosely territorial; keep one male with several females

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Challenges: Needs strong flow, bright light and abundant biofilm

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, clear and highly oxygenated
• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Hardness: 2–12 dGH
• Flow: Strong; 10–15 times turnover hourly
• Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres for one male with two or more females

Final Notes

Only add this goby to a mature tank with plenty of algae-covered rock; it can starve in a spotless new setup. Wild caught, it has not been bred in captivity because larvae develop at sea before returning upstream. A tightly fitting lid is essential as it climbs glass, and strong lighting encourages the biofilm it eats. Meet those needs and the males colour up superbly.