Peacock Gudgeon

Tateurndina ocellicauda is native to slow-flowing streams and flooded forest habitats of Papua New Guinea, where it inhabits warm, clear water with abundant leaf litter. It is one of the few goby-like fish to spawn in caves and provide biparental care for its eggs. Males develop a distinctive bump on the forehead and become more vivid in colour during breeding season.

Water: 22–26 °C, pH 7.0–8.0, moderately soft to hard; freshwater; does not require brackish conditions. Tank: 60 L minimum; heavily planted with caves and tubes for cave spawning. Feeding: Carnivorous; frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, Daphnia; accepts quality micro pellets. Behaviour: Peaceful except during breeding; males become territorial around cave spawning sites. Compatibility: Excellent community fish with other small, peaceful species; safe with nano shrimp.