A stunning, peaceful freshwater sleeper goby from Papua New Guinea. Known for their vibrant blue, red, and yellow colors, they are excellent nano-tank inhabitants. They are not true gobies (they lack fused pelvic fins) and are exclusively freshwater. They prefer slow-moving water, dense vegetation, and small caves (like PVC pipes or smooth stones) for spawning.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Males develop a prominent nuchal hump (rounded forehead) as they mature. They are slightly larger, highly colorful, and will fiercely guard eggs laid inside small caves or PVC pipes.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Male Peacock Gudgeon, Nuchal Hump
Female
Females lack the nuchal hump, featuring a much more streamlined head. They are easily identified by a bright yellow patch on their belly (which becomes very pronounced when gravid/full of eggs) and a black edge on their anal fin.
Differs in 3 traits from base species
Also known as: Female Peacock Gudgeon, Yellow Belly
Peacock Gudgeon Care Summary
The Peacock Gudgeon, scientifically known as Tateurndina ocellicauda, belongs to the Gobies & Gudgeons family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 6 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Peacock Gudgeon requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 40 litres and a tank length of at least 45 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 6.5–7.5 and a general hardness of 5–10 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include plants - densely covered and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels).
This species should be kept in groups of at least 2 to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Empire Gudgeon
Hypseleotris compressa
A remarkably adaptable and beautifully colored sleeper goby (not a true goby) native to Australia and New Guinea. They inhabit both pure freshwater streams and brackish estuaries. While generally peaceful and excellent community fish, they are micropredators that will happily consume dwarf shrimp and very small fry.
Neon Blue Goby
Stiphodon atropurpureus
A stunning, specialized freshwater goby native to fast-flowing hill streams in Asia. Males display brilliant neon blue metallic coloration, while females are striped. They are specialized biofilm grazers ('Aufwuchs' eaters) and require mature tanks with established algae/biofilm stones. They are obligate stream dwellers requiring high oxygen and strong flow.
Knight Goby
Stigmatogobius sadanundio
A distinct, high-bodied goby found in estuaries across South Asia. Unlike most bottom-dwelling gobies, the Knight Goby frequently hovers in the water column. While often sold as freshwater fish, they thrive best in slightly brackish water (SG 1.003-1.005) or very hard, alkaline freshwater. They are territorial and notorious fin-nippers, making them poor tankmates for Guppies or Bettas.
Turquoise Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia lacustris
A stunning, deep-bodied rainbowfish endemic to Lake Kutubu in Papua New Guinea. Famous for their ability to shift colors from deep teal to bright iridescent blue depending on mood and water quality. They are active schooling fish that thrive in hard, alkaline water.
Violet Goby (Dragon Goby)
Gobioides broussonnetii
Often misunderstood due to its terrifying 'Dragon' appearance and sharp teeth, the Violet Goby is actually a gentle, nearly blind scavenger and filter feeder. It uses its teeth to scrape algae, not to bite fish. It requires brackish water to thrive long-term and fine sand to sift through for food. It is not a predator.
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
A peaceful to semi-aggressive labyrinth fish native to South Asia. Famous for their brilliant metallic blue and red stripes. While generally suitable for community tanks, males are territorial toward each other and similar-looking fish. They are sensitive to water quality and prone to Iridovirus if stressed. Requires access to the surface to breathe.