Peacock Gudgeon

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Native to eastern lowland rivers of Papua New Guinea. Slow-flowing zones with sandy bottoms and moderate vegetation. One of the few ornamental fish from this remote island established in the hobby.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Eleotridae (sleeper goby), reaching 6-7 cm. Unlike true Gobiidae, pelvic fins are separate, not fused into a sucker disc. Rounded head with large terminal mouth. Two separate dorsal fins.

Social Behavior: Moderately territorial but much less aggressive than dwarf cichlids. Males defend cave territories but tolerate mid-water tankmates. Disputes are mostly ritualistic fin-flaring displays.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Pale blue body covered in regular rows of red-orange dots. Distinctive black gold-rimmed ocellus (false eye) at the caudal fin base. Males have a rounded nuchal hump absent in females. Gravid females show a brilliant yellow belly.

Tank Setup: 60-80+ liters with fine sand, woods, shade plants. Each male needs at least one cave for spawning. Moderate lighting, gentle current.

Feeding: Less demanding than dwarf cichlids. Accepts frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, micro-pellets, and even flakes.

Water Quality: Neutral (pH 6.5-7.5), moderate hardness (GH 5-15), 22-26°C. Tolerant. Moderate tap water works untreated.

Compatibility: Excellent peaceful community fish. Compatible with Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, adult shrimp. Multiple males coexist peacefully with multiple caves.

Reproduction: Among the easiest for non-livebearers. Female lays on cave ceiling. Male guards devotedly for 8-10 days. Fry accept artemia nauplii within 2-3 days. Male can accept eggs from multiple females simultaneously.

Risks: Relatively robust. Columnaris above 28°C. Egg cannibalism by tankmates is the main breeding obstacle — cave openings must exclude larger fish.