Bumblebee Goby

The Bumblebee Goby is a tiny, captivating fish named for its striking black and yellow banding that resembles a bumblebee. Native to brackish and freshwater habitats in Southeast Asia, these diminutive gobies are among the smallest aquarium fish available, rarely exceeding 1.5 inches in length. Despite their small size, they have big personalities and are constantly active, perching on decorations and darting around the tank. Bumblebee Gobies prefer slightly brackish conditions but can adapt to freshwater if acclimated slowly. They are predatory for their size and prefer live or frozen foods over prepared foods. Their diminutive size and specific care requirements make them suitable for dedicated small tanks or nano aquariums. When kept in appropriate conditions with suitable tank mates, their bold coloration and active behaviors make them charming additions to small aquariums.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Bumblebee Gobies need a small aquarium of 10-15 gallons with plenty of hiding spots and perches. They appreciate rocks, driftwood, and caves to claim as territories. Use sand or fine gravel substrate. While they can adapt to freshwater, they do best with a small amount of aquarium salt (1-2 teaspoons per 5 gallons). Gentle filtration is essential.

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• pH: 7.0-8.5
• Water Hardness: Moderate to hard, 8-20 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

These small predators prefer live or frozen foods. Offer baby brine shrimp, daphnia, and small frozen foods. They may be reluctant to accept prepared foods. Feed small amounts twice daily. Their small mouths require appropriately tiny food items. Target feeding ensures they receive adequate nutrition.

Behavior & Compatibility

Bumblebee Gobies are peaceful but territorial among themselves. Keep in small groups of 4-6 with plenty of hiding spots to reduce aggression. They are suitable for nano tanks with other tiny peaceful species or dwarf shrimp. Their small size makes them vulnerable to larger tank mates. They are active and entertaining to watch.

Tips for Success

• Keep in groups with plenty of caves and hiding spots
• They prefer slightly brackish water but can adapt to freshwater
• Live or frozen foods are preferred over prepared foods
• Use gentle filtration; sponge filters work well
• Their tiny size requires careful selection of tank mates
• Males are more intensely colored than females
• Excellent for nano tanks with other micro fish species