Crested Gudgeon (Butis koilomatodon)

Family: Eleotridae

Crested Gudgeon — a Eleotridae from 大洋洲, calm bottom resident with clear territory boundaries. Reaches 11.2–16.5 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
11.2–16.5 cm
Minimum tank
327 L
Water layer
Middle of the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm bottom resident with clear territory boundaries
Origin
大洋洲

Species overview

From the waters of 大洋洲 comes Butis koilomatodon, 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 11.2–16.5 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

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Subtle external differences
Breeding method
Cave or crevice spawner; the male guards the eggs