Stiphodon Maculidorsalis

Datasheet

Behaviour

Stiphodon spp. exhibit loose territorial behavior, especially during breeding. It is recommended to keep several males together, ensuring enough space and suitable food. They can coexist with other stream-dwelling gobies and do best in the company of conspecific individuals. While males tend to be territorial, females are more inclined to form loose groups, making it advisable to keep a single male with two or more females. Males can distinguish between females of different species.

Feeding and Diet

Stiphodon spp. are specialized grazers, primarily feeding on benthic algae and associated micro-organisms. Their unique mouthparts and dentition are adapted for this purpose. In captivity, they may accept some sinking dried products and meaty foods like bloodworms but should mainly be provided with a diet rich in algae. A mature aquarium with algae-covered surfaces is essential for their long-term health. If algae growth in the main tank is insufficient, a separate container can be used to cultivate algae and periodically switch them with rocks in the main tank.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Stiphodon spp. have a complex amphidromous breeding strategy. They spawn in freshwater streams, but the larvae are washed downstream to the sea where they develop before migrating back upstream. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced in these species, with males displaying a grey to yellowish-brown body color and bright orange to yellow fins while females are lighter in coloration. Females deposit thousands of eggs on submerged surfaces, guarded by the male during a brief incubation period.

Habitat and Distribution

Stiphodon spp. are predominantly found in short coastal streams above waterfalls, making them inaccessible to most other fish species. These streams have clear, well-oxygenated water and rocky substrates with rich biofilm. The genus is mainly distributed in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, with some species found in the eastern Indian Ocean. Concerns have been raised about the conservation of some species due to habitat degradation in their native range. Stiphodon Maculidorsalis, for instance, is known from western Sumatra, Indonesia.

Aquarium Setup

Maintaining well-oxygenated and clean water is crucial for keeping Stiphodon spp. in aquariums. Additional filtration and aeration are recommended, along with a substrate of gravel and rocks. Strong lighting to promote algae growth, hiding spaces, and a tightly-fitting cover are essential. Aquatic plants like Microsorum and Anubias can be added, and water parameters should be kept stable within the specified ranges. Weekly water changes are necessary, and algae growth on surfaces except the viewing pane is beneficial for these fish.