More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 40 litres / 10.57 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 3.5cm / 1.38inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 8.01dgH / 143ppm - 20.00dgH / 357ppm |
| pH | 7.0-8.5 |
General Description
The Bumblebee Goby, scientifically known as Brachygobius Doriae, is a species often found in the aquarium trade. It shares similarities with other genus members, making identification challenging. With distinctive features like black bands on the head and body, this goby can reach a maximum size of 3.5cm. Endemic to Borneo and the Natuna Islands, it inhabits both fresh and brackish water environments, preferring areas with mud, sand, and submerged organic material.
Aquarium Setup
For a Bumblebee Goby setup, a minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended. Provide lots of hiding spots to create a broken line of sight, enabling weaker individuals to evade dominant fish. The substrate can include crushed coral for buffering or marine salt for brackish conditions. Gentle filtration using an air-powered sponge-type unit is ideal to mimic the goby's natural habitat (see table for specific water parameters).
Behaviour
Known to be territorial, especially among males, it is suggested to keep a group of 6 or more to distribute aggression and encourage natural behavior. Bumblebee Gobies are best kept in a species-specific setup to avoid conflicts in a community tank setting.
Feeding and Diet
The diet of the Bumblebee Goby consists mainly of small live foods like Artemia and Daphnia. While some individuals may accept frozen alternatives, dried food is typically ignored. Ensuring live food availability is crucial for their nutritional needs and overall health.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Breeding occurs in small caves or suitable objects where males guard and tend to the eggs. Female Bumblebee Gobies are larger and rounder when gravid, while males display a reddish tinge during spawning. Successful breeding involves removing other fish from the tank to prevent fry predation until the young are large enough to consume appropriate food sources.
Habitat and Distribution
Inhabiting coastal environments like mangrove swamps and estuaries, Bumblebee Gobies are found in regions of Borneo and the Natuna Islands. They thrive in environments with low acidity, minimal conductivity, and organic-rich substrates, adapting well to both freshwater and brackish conditions. Records from Singapore are considered inaccurate, with primary populations located in Sarawak, Brunei Darussalam, and select parts of Indonesia.