More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 60 litres / 15.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 5.0cm / 1.97inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
Behaviour:
Stiphodon spp. can be kept in a community tank with peaceful, similarly-sized species like Tanichthys, Microdevario, or small Danio species from upper levels to bottom-dwellers such as loaches and small gobies in high-turnover setups. Aggressive feeders like some Schistura spp. should be avoided. These gobies can be kept in loose territories with males being territorial, especially during breeding. They can coexist with stream-dwelling gobies like Sicyopus, Sicyopterus, Rhinogobius, and Schismatogobius. Males are not inherently social, and females usually form loose groups, suggesting keeping one male with multiple females as a minimum purchase. Males can differentiate between females of different species.
Feeding and Diet:
Specialized algal grazers, Stiphodon spp. feed on benthic algae and micro-organisms, preferring algae-covered rocks in mature aquariums. They can accept sinking dried products and meaty foods irregularly due to their vegetable-based diet. Growing algae in a separate container and providing a variety of algal types is essential for their long-term health. Maintaining proper feeding sources is crucial, especially for emaciated specimens commonly seen in stores.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:
Courtship behavior and occasional spawning have been observed, but raising fry in captivity is challenging due to their complex amphidromous breeding strategy. Females can deposit up to 10,000 tiny eggs on solid surfaces, guarded by males during the less than 24-hour incubation period. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced, with males displaying a grey base color and a bright lateral stripe, while females are lighter with a dark lateral stripe.
Habitat and Distribution:
Stiphodon spp. inhabit short coastal streams above waterfalls on tropical islands, inaccessible to most fishes. Their range includes southern Japan, Taiwan, parts of southern China, the Philippines, and southern Malaysia. Habitat preferences vary based on species, with some in fast-flowing streams above waterfalls and others in slower-moving streams. They thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water with rich biofilm and prefer substrates of rocks and boulders. The ability to graze biofilm is crucial for their success in these niche environments.