Rhinogobius rubromaculatus – ~5 cm Red-Spotted Goby

The Red-Spotted Goby is a charming and vividly patterned freshwater fish, typically reaching 4–5 cm in length. Its body is adorned with ruby-red dots and deep red-to-blue hues on the fins, topped off with delicate white fin edges—especially striking in males. Native to Taiwan’s clear, oxygen-rich mountain streams, it adds both color and character to naturalistic or planted aquarium setups.

Care Instructions

• Tank Setup:

  • Use a tank with a base size of at least 60 × 30 cm (~54 L).

  • Include a mix of fine sand, smooth gravel, flat stones, and driftwood to mimic its streambed habitat and create shaded areas for hiding.  

• Water Conditions:

  • Maintain temperature between 18–24 °C.

  • pH levels should be between 6.0–8.0, with moderate hardness (GH 5–20 °dH).

  • Ensure high oxygen levels and moderate flow—use power filters, heads, or air stones. Weekly water changes (30–50%) are essential. 

• Diet:

  • Omnivorous. Offer a varied diet including small live or frozen invertebrates (e.g., bloodworms, Artemia, Daphnia). Dried foods should be introduced slowly after acclimation. 

• Behavior & Tankmates:

  • Generally peaceful but males may spar—best kept as a pair or small group with ample hiding spaces. 

  • Compatible with peaceful schooling fish like Danios, White Cloud Mountain Minnows, and hillstream loaches. Avoid small fry or shrimp that may become prey. 

• Breeding:

  • Cave-spawning fish. Males excavate pebble caves and guard eggs stuck to the ceiling; fry hatch in ~3–4 days and may initially drift before settling.