Formosa Brook Goby (Rhinogobius formosanus)

Family: Gobiidae

Formosa Brook Goby — a Gobiidae from 中国, peaceful but territorial toward its own kind. Reaches 4.7–6.8 cm; a bonded pair claims one cave; keep others elsewhere. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
4.7–6.8 cm
Minimum tank
55 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful but territorial toward its own kind
Origin
中国

Species overview

Gobiidae species Rhinogobius formosanus comes from 中国. A benthic percher that spends its days darting between rock, glass and cave — structure decides its temperament. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 4.7–6.8 cm. A bonded pair claims one cave; keep others elsewhere. Caves, stable pairs and clean sand keep this fish far calmer than open, bare tanks ever will. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Best suited to a keeper who can match its natural water.

Native biotope

Habitat
Shallow streams and estuaries over sand
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine sand
Hardscape
Flat stones and shells
Plants
Sparse hardy plants

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
A bonded pair claims one cave; keep others elsewhere
Diet
Small carnivore — live, frozen and fine sinking foods
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
Males larger and more colourful
Breeding method
Hidden-clutch spawner with paternal care