Blue Neon Goby Care Guide – How to Keep Stiphodon Gobies Happy and Healthy in Freshwater Tanks

Introduction: A Flash of Blue in the Riverbed

The Blue Neon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpureus) is one of the most visually stunning nano fish available in the freshwater hobby. With its shimmering electric-blue coloration, peaceful behavior, and algae-grazing habits, this goby is perfect for aquascaped or river-style tanks.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to raise and care for these rare fish — from ideal water conditions and diet to tank mates and behavior.

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🔍 Species Overview

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🏠 Tank Requirements

🧱 Minimum Tank Size

• 10 gallons (for trio)

• 20+ gallons for community setups

These gobies do best in small groups (3–6) and appreciate long, shallow tanks with strong filtration and river-style scaping.

🪨 Aquascape

• Rounded river stones and boulders

• Fine gravel or sandy substrate

• Driftwood and algae-covered surfaces

• No sharp edges (they perch and graze constantly)

🌊 Filtration & Flow

• Moderate to strong flow mimics their native streams

• High oxygen essential

• Sponge filter or HOB with surface agitation recommended

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💧 Water Parameters

Weekly water changes and clean water are key to their longevity.

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🍽️ Feeding Guide

Blue Neon Gobies are algae grazers that constantly pick at surfaces in search of biofilm.

✅ Diet Includes:

• Algae wafers (Hikari, Xtreme, Omega One)

• Spirulina-based sinking pellets

• Blanched zucchini or spinach

• Frozen bloodworms (1–2x per week as a treat)

Avoid heavy protein diets — these gobies thrive best on vegetable-rich, plant-based foods.

🕒 Feed once daily; offer food in multiple spots to prevent competition.

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🧠 Behavior & Activity

• Very peaceful

• Active throughout the day, especially at feeding times

• Males display electric-blue colors when dominant

• Constantly grazing and perching on rocks and glass

• Will occasionally “flirt” or display with other males

They’re always on the move and interact well with other peaceful species.

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👫 Best Tank Mates

Blue Neon Gobies work well in community setups with calm, gentle tank mates.

✅ Compatible Species:

• Chili Rasboras

• Ember Tetras

• Otocinclus

• Kuhli Loaches

• Amano or Bamboo Shrimp

• Nerite Snails

❌ Avoid:

• Large, aggressive fish

• Fast or fin-nipping species

• Shrimp fry if breeding shrimp

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🧬 Breeding Behavior

Breeding is extremely rare in home aquariums. In the wild, they exhibit amphidromous behavior — eggs hatch in freshwater, drift to the ocean, and return to streams as juveniles.

While reproduction is unlikely in captivity, their social behaviors and color displays make them rewarding to watch.

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🩺 Health & Care Tips

• Hardy if acclimated properly

• Sensitive to poor water and rapid changes

• Quarantine new arrivals

• Avoid copper-based medications

• Provide hiding spaces and smooth terrain

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💲 Why Buy from RobsAquatics.com?

At RobsAquatics.com, we specialize in rare nano species like Blue Neon Gobies:

• Health-checked and parasite-free

• Ethically sourced and well-acclimated

• Shipped overnight with professional packaging

• Backed by expert support and live arrival guarantee

• Ideal for aquascapers, nano tank fans, and collectors

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🧠 Final Thoughts

The Blue Neon Goby is a rare freshwater gem that rewards patient and attentive aquarists. Their peaceful nature, stunning appearance, and constant activity make them one of the best choices for aquascaped or river-style tanks.

If you’re building a nano community or a biotope aquarium, few species offer the color and charm of Stiphodon gobies.

👉 Order a 3-pack of Blue Neon Stiphodon Gobies from RobsAquatics.com today and add some electric-blue energy to your aquarium.