Stiphodon atropurpureus (Electric Blue Neon Goby)

Stiphodon atropurpureus (Electric Blue Neon Goby)

The Electric Blue Neon Goby is a stunning freshwater goby known for its vibrant electric-blue body, lively personality, and constant grazing behaviour. Small, peaceful, and highly active, this species is ideal for aquarists who enjoy dynamic river-style aquariums. When kept in the right environment with clean, oxygen-rich water, males develop intense metallic blues that truly stand out.

General Description

Native to fast-flowing, shallow streams across the Indo-Pacific islands, Stiphodon atropurpureus has evolved to cling to rocks and graze on algae in strong currents. Their compact bodies, sucker-like pelvic fins, and iridescent colours make them both functional and beautiful. Peaceful and social, they thrive in groups and coexist well with other small, calm species.

Tank Mates

Electric Blue Neon Gobies are gentle and compatible with a variety of peaceful fish that prefer similar conditions. Suitable tank mates include:

• Small rasboras (Chili, Lambchop, Harlequin)

• Danios (Celestial Pearl, Zebra)

• Smaller tetras

• Hillstream loaches

• Corydoras (in gentler-flow areas)

• Shrimp and snails

Avoid:

• Large or aggressive fish

• Slow, long-finned species

• Predatory or territorial tank mates

They show best behaviour and confidence when kept in groups of 3 or more.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size: 60–90 litres

• Temperature: 22–26°C

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Flow: Strong, oxygen-rich flow is essential

• Ideal Setup:

  • Smooth stones, pebbles, and rounded river substrates

  • Algae-covered surfaces and biofilm for natural grazing

  • High to moderate lighting to encourage algae growth

  • Driftwood, caves, and hiding spots

A river-style aquarium with pristine water quality brings out their full colour potential.

Diet

Electric Blue Neon Gobies are omnivorous micro-grazers. Their diet in the aquarium should include:

• Spirulina pellets and algae wafers

• Micro pellets

• Frozen foods like daphnia, cyclops, baby brine shrimp

• Blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini)

• Naturally growing algae and biofilm—they depend on this

Providing rocks or surfaces for algae growth significantly improves their health and colour.

Breeding

Breeding Stiphodon atropurpureus is rare in the home aquarium due to their amphidromous lifecycle:

• Eggs are laid under stones or in small caves.

• Males guard the nest.

• Once hatched, larvae drift downstream and require saltwater to develop.

Due to this complex lifecycle, successful breeding is considered advanced and uncommon in normal freshwater setups.

Water Conditions & Care Notes

• Maintain excellent water quality—frequent small water changes are important.

• Ensure strong flow and high oxygen levels through powerheads and surface agitation.

• Encourage natural algae growth—this is essential to their diet.

• Avoid aggressive or boisterous fish.

• Peaceful and incredibly rewarding when kept correctly.