Bumblebee Goby
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
One of several look-alike species sold as Bumblebee Gobies, ideal small fish for brackishwater aquariums. JJPhoto.dk
[edit] Overview
Although Bumblebee Gobies are small and attractive fishes, they originate in areas with brackish water and do not do well in freshwater environments.
They are best kept in a brackish-water species aquarium that is fine-tuned to their physiology and is populated with peaceful fishes.
Several other very similar Asian species, including Brachygobius doriae, are also sold as Bumblebee Gobies. All have similar markings, sizes and care requirements.
Family: Gobiidae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
Habitat: Brackish mangrove swamps, estuaries, streams, coastal shorelines, sometimes venturing into freshwater. In the aquarium, provide rocky caves or a choice of snail or seashells where they can find shelter. Miniature terracotta flowerpots ("thumbpots") can also provide artificial caves.
Maximum length: 3.8 cm (1 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 38 L (10 gal)
Water: Brackish 22 °C (295 K, 72 °F) - 29 °C (302 K, 84 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom.
[edit] Feeding
Carnivore. Feeds on zooplankton in the wild. Offer meaty foods, including Mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, bloodworms, and appropriately sized plankton.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Larger, more aggressive species may out-compete Bumblebee Gobies for food. On the other hand, these fish can be fiesty for their size and have a reputation for nipping at the flowing fins of certain other species.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Because they spawn during the rainy season, some breeders induce spawning by conditioning their stock well and then adding 50 per cent cool (20 C - 68 F), freshwater to mimic a torrential rainfall or typhoon. They lay adhesive eggs in large snail shells or in protected spots on hard substrate and guard the nests in the manner of cichlids.
| Common name | Bumblebee Goby + |
| Family | Gobiidae + |
| Genus | Brachygobuis + |
| Image credit | JJ + |
| Maximum length | 1 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 10 gal + |
| Native range | Asia +, Indonesia +, Java +, Sumatra +, and Borneo + |
| Reference | 101 Best Tropical Fishes + |
| Specific name | xanthozonus + |
| Swimming level | Bottom. + |
| Text credit | KW + |
| Water max temp | 302 K (29 °C, 84 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 295 K (22 °C, 72 °F) + |
| Water type | Brackish + |