Neon Stiphodon Goby

The Neon Stiphodon Goby is a trade name applied to one or more brilliantly coloured undescribed or recently described Stiphodon species from the islands of Southeast Asia, characterised by males displaying an intense neon-blue to turquoise lateral stripe or body wash combined with vivid orange on the head and anterior flanks. Like all Stiphodon, it is amphidromous, spending its larval phase at sea before ascending freshwater streams as a juvenile. Adult fish graze periphyton and biofilm from rock surfaces using a specially adapted oral disc. In the aquarium it requires fast flow, excellent oxygenation, and a well-established rock surface biofilm. Males will display to each other with fin erection and colour intensification but rarely cause serious injury. This goby is one of the most visually striking nano fish available, rivalling many marine species in brilliance.

Water: 22–26 °C, pH 7.0–7.8, GH 5–15, KH 3–10; very high dissolved oxygen; powerhead or spray bar essential. Tank: 60 L minimum; smooth river cobble and flat stones with established algae biofilm; avoid fine substrate. Feeding: Biofilm grazer; spirulina wafers, Repashy Soilent Green, blanched spinach or zucchini; rarely accepts meaty foods. Breeding: Amphidromous; marine larval stage; not achievable in standard home aquaria. Compatibility: Peaceful; pair with other hillstream gobies or small peaceful nano fish; avoid fast-feeding competitors.