More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 40 litres / 10.57 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 1.8cm / 0.71inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 0.00dgH / 0ppm - 5.04dgH / 90ppm |
| pH | 5.5-7.5 |
General Description
The Mekong Bumblebee Goby (Brachygobius Mekongensis) is a poorly-known species in the aquarium trade, characterized by a pale background with narrow, often broken dark bars on its body. It belongs to the Gobiidae family and reaches a maximum size of 1.8 cm. This species is closely related to Pandaka in terms of shared characteristics but differs in head morphology and the number of epurals.
Aquarium Setup
For a suitable aquarium setup for the Mekong Bumblebee Goby, a densely-planted tank with floating vegetation, roots, twigs, or branches is recommended. The tank should have a minimal filtration system, ideally an air-powered sponge-type unit, as these fish are accustomed to pristine environments. The water conditions should maintain a hardness of 0-90ppm, pH levels between 5.5-7.5, and a temperature range of 22-28°C (see table).
Behaviour
Mekong Bumblebee Gobies are territorial, especially males towards each other. To reduce aggression, it is advised to keep a group of at least 6 individuals in the tank. Larger groups spread aggression among the fish, making them bolder and displaying more natural behavior. They are best kept in a species-specific setup or with similarly-sized species like Boraras or Indostomus spp.
Feeding and Diet
These gobies primarily feed on small live foods like Artemia and Daphnia, with some individuals eventually accepting frozen alternatives. They tend to ignore dried food products, so offering live prey is crucial for their diet.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Brachygobius Mekongensis has been successfully spawned in aquarium conditions, with males caring for the roughly 30 eggs deposited on a hard surface. This species is believed to be progenetic, with sexually mature females as young as 36 days old. Gravid females are observed year-round in both dry and wet seasons.
Habitat and Distribution
In the wild, the Mekong Bumblebee Goby is found in slow-moving or standing freshwater habitats like marshes, swamps, and floodplains with abundant aquatic vegetation. Their distribution ranges from Laos and Thailand to southern Vietnam and Cambodia, including the Tonlé Sap lake and river system. They are commonly observed in association with other fish species such as Boraras, Amblypharyngodon, and Indostomus.