Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby Care: Tank Setup, Feeding & Buying Guide
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🌈 What Is a Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby?
The Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby (Stiphodon atropurpureus) is one of the most stunning freshwater nano fish in the hobby. Native to fast-moving mountain streams in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, this goby is known for its electric blue shimmer and peaceful, algae-grazing nature.
Perfect for planted aquariums and river-style nano tanks, these gobies thrive in clean, high-oxygen environments.
📏 Size & Lifespan
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Adult Size: 1.5 to 2 inches
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Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care
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Behavior: Peaceful, bottom-dwelling, social in small groups
Blue Neon Gobies are small and non-aggressive, making them ideal for community aquariums or aquascaped nano tanks.
🏡 Ideal Tank Setup
To mimic their natural environment, aim for a clean, river-style setup with moderate to strong water flow.
Tank Requirements:
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Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (20+ preferred for groups)
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Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
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Décor: Rounded stones, driftwood, hiding spots
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Plants: Java moss, anubias, or riverbank-style aquascaping
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Flow: Use sponge filters or gentle powerheads for current
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Lid: Secure, as they may jump if startled
💡 Want a full guide? Read: How to Build a River Biotope Tank
🌡️ Water Parameters
Parameter | Ideal Range |
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Temperature | 72–78°F |
pH | 6.5–7.5 |
GH/KH | Moderate |
Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
Nitrate | < 20 ppm |
Blue Neon Gobies are sensitive to water quality. Weekly water changes and consistent parameters are critical.
🍽️ What Do Blue Neon Gobies Eat?
These gobies are micro-algae grazers by nature, often seen cleaning rocks and glass. In aquariums, they will also accept prepared foods.
Recommended Diet:
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Biofilm & algae (natural grazing)
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Repashy Soilent Green
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Algae wafers (broken into small pieces)
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Micropellets and fine flake foods
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Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach)
🛒 Shop Goby & Algae Eater Foods
🤝 Best Tank Mates
Blue Neon Gobies are incredibly peaceful and do best with other small, non-aggressive species.
Great Tank Mates:
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Chili Rasboras
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Celestial Pearl Danios
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Pygmy Corydoras
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Amano Shrimp
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Nerite Snails
🚫 Avoid: Larger fish, aggressive tetras, or fast eaters that outcompete gobies for food.
🧬 Behavior & Social Dynamics
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Day-active grazers: Always seen scraping rocks or exploring.
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Territorial with own kind if overcrowded—keep 1 male per tank or several females with a male in larger setups.
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Do not harm shrimp or fry—completely community-safe.
🛒 Where to Buy Blue Neon Gobies Online
At RobsAquatics.com, we provide:
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Vibrant, healthy gobies raised in proper conditions
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Safe, fast shipping
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Acclimation support and care tips
🔗 Related Blog Posts:
✅ Final Thoughts: Is the Blue Neon Goby Right for You?
If you're looking for a peaceful, stunning, and low-impact algae grazer, the Blue Neon Stiphodon Goby is a standout. With its brilliant color and easy-going nature, it’s a must-have for aquascaped tanks and small community setups.
🛒 Ready to add a pop of neon blue to your tank?
👉 Buy Blue Neon Gobies at Rob’s Aquatics