Rhinogobius zhoui – 4 cm Stream Goby

The Zhou’s Scarlet Goby, a prized member of the Rhinogobius genus, is a striking Freshwater Goby native to swift mountain streams in Guangdong’s Lianhua Mountain and nearby regions. Reaching around 4 cm in length, males are especially eye-catching, sporting red-orange blotches and distinct white-edged fins. These little powerhouses are lively and engaging, making them a stunning centerpiece for any Biotope & Native Fish setup.

Care Instructions

• Tank Setup:

  • Minimum tank base size: ~60 × 30 cm (~54 L), ideally with flowing water.

  • Substrate: Combination of fine sand, gravel, and smooth stones. Include rocks or driftwood that offer crevices and shaded areas for hiding.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: Between 16–24 °C (cool, unheated setup recommended).

  • pH: 6.0–8.5, GH ~5–10 dGH.

  • Water must be pristine and well-oxygenated; frequent partial water changes are important.

• Behaviour & Community:

  • Semi-territorial yet generally peaceful. Best kept in groups with adequate hiding space.

  • Place multiple males with more females to minimize stress and maintain activity levels.

  • Avoid very small tankmates (shrimp, tiny fishes), as gobies may prey on them.

• Feeding:

  • Omnivorous—feeds readily on small live/frozen invertebrates (daphnia, bloodworms, brine shrimp), supplemented with high-quality pellets or flakes.

• Breeding:

  • Cave-spawning species. Males guard eggs typically laid on flat slate or caves. Ideal for dedicated setups with multiple spawning sites.