Bird Song Goby

A tiny stream goby from Japan and the Philippines. Males turn orange-red with dark bars when displaying. It needs strong flow, plenty of oxygen and a tight lid, and it does best in a mature tank with algae-covered stones. Larvae of this kind of goby drift out to sea before returning to fresh water, so it is very rarely bred in aquariums.

Check the scientific name when buying, as common names vary between sellers and countries.

Males are often more colourful, with longer fins.

Provide caves, pebbles and shelter on the bottom, and a good lid, because some gobies can climb or jump.

Spends much of its time resting on the bottom, and darts short distances, often claiming a small territory.

Can usually be kept in a small group if each fish has its own shelter.

Males often defend a small home range.

Best with small, peaceful fish, or in a species tank, because it may struggle to compete for food. It is likely to eat shrimp.

Keep the pH steady, because this fish is sensitive to swings.

Feeds largely on algae and plant matter, so include plenty of algae and vegetable foods, with small frozen foods as a supplement.

Feed small amounts, and remove anything left after a few minutes.

Spawns inside a cave, and one parent guards the eggs and young. Provide a suitable cave for each pair.