Peacock Gudgeon

The Peacock Gudgeon is one of the most beautifully colored freshwater gobies available in the aquarium trade. Native to Papua New Guinea, these small fish display an incredible array of colors including iridescent blue, green, orange, and red spots, with males developing especially vivid coloration and longer fins. Their name comes from the peacock-like eye spot on their tail fin. Despite being a goby, they are not strictly bottom-dwellers and will swim throughout the water column. They are relatively peaceful and can be kept in pairs or small groups. Peacock Gudgeons are cave spawners and will breed readily in the aquarium if provided with appropriate caves and conditions. Their stunning appearance, manageable size, and interesting behaviors make them an excellent choice for small planted tanks and peaceful community setups. They are becoming increasingly popular among aquarists seeking colorful nano tank inhabitants.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Peacock Gudgeons thrive in well-planted aquariums of 15-20 gallons with plenty of hiding spots. Provide caves or tubes for spawning and security. Use soft substrate and include driftwood and plants to create a natural environment. They appreciate some water movement but not strong currents. Ensure there are territories for each fish if keeping multiple specimens.

Water Quality

• Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate, 2-12 dGH
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

These carnivores prefer small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They may accept high-quality micro pellets after acclimation. Feed small amounts twice daily as they have small stomachs. Target feeding helps ensure they receive adequate nutrition in community tanks.

Behavior & Compatibility

Peacock Gudgeons are peaceful and can be kept in pairs or small groups with one male and multiple females. Males may spar with each other but rarely cause harm. They are suitable for peaceful community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish. They are cave spawners that will breed readily if provided with appropriate caves.

Tips for Success

• Provide caves or tubes for spawning; PVC pipe sections work well
• Males are more colorful; keep one male with 2-3 females for best results
• Their stunning colors intensify under good lighting with dark substrate
• They appreciate some water flow similar to their stream habitat
• Feed small, frequent meals to maintain their vibrant colors
• Excellent choice for aquarists wanting colorful fish in small tanks
• Breeding pairs will care for eggs and fry in appropriately set up tanks