Giurinus Rhinogobius Goby

Rhinogobius giurinus is one of the most broadly distributed gobies in tropical and subtropical Asia, ranging from eastern China through Vietnam, Thailand, and down to the Indonesian archipelago. It inhabits a diverse range of habitats including clear forest streams, lowland rivers, and even sluggish estuarine margins. Males are attractively patterned with pale cream and brown marbling, scattered iridescent scales, and orange-spotted cheeks and throat. Compared to many Rhinogobius, R. giurinus is more tolerant of warmer water, making it suitable for tropical community aquariums rather than requiring a dedicated cool-water setup. It is an active, inquisitive fish that quickly learns to recognise its keeper and will approach the front of the tank at feeding time. Cave spawning occurs readily in captivity with appropriate décor.

Water: 20–26 °C, pH 6.8–7.8, GH 5–15, KH 2–10; adaptable to both soft and moderately hard water. Tank: 80 L minimum; sand or fine gravel with smooth pebbles and caves or pipe sections; moderate flow. Feeding: Carnivore; frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and small sinking pellets; feeds eagerly at all times. Breeding: Cave spawner; deposits eggs in pipes or under flat stones; male guards clutch; larvae are amphidromous. Compatibility: Compatible with peaceful mid-water species; avoid aggressive bottom-dwellers.