Chinese Gudgeon — a Eleotridae from 中国, calm bottom resident with clear territory boundaries. Reaches 16.5–24.2 cm; singly or in pairs; every fish needs its own refuge. 22–28 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
22–28 °C
pH
7–8
GH hardness
9–19 dGH
Adult length
16.5–24.2 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm bottom resident with clear territory boundaries
Origin
中国
Species overview
From the waters of 中国 comes Bostrychus sinensis, a member of the family Eleotridae. A benthic percher that spends its days darting between rock, glass and cave — structure decides its temperament. It swims in mid-water. Adults reach 16.5–24.2 cm. Singly or in pairs; every fish needs its own refuge. Caves, stable pairs and clean sand keep this fish far calmer than open, bare tanks ever will. Maintain 22–28 °C at pH 7–8. Water quality and diet matter more than décor.
Native biotope
Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Singly or in pairs; every fish needs its own refuge
Diet
Meaty foods; train onto frozen then pellets
Recommended tankmates
Non-goby bottom fish — Ignore its territorial posturing
Avoid keeping with
Large aggressive fish — Shatter its sense of cover