General information – The Stiphodon elegans is one of the most

amazing tropical fish in the hobby but unfortunately it is still in the

shadows. It is a freshwater goby found in Asia and Oceania.

Stiphodon elegans inhabits streams close to the sea, in its habitat

it found in rocky and sandy substrate environments. 

Common Name - Golden Neon Goby, Goby elegans 

Scientific Name - Stiphodon elegans

Photo by: Aquario

Origin - Asia and Oceania 

Size - 5cm (2 inches) 

First discovered - Steindachner, 1879 

Nutrition – In nature the Golden Neon Goby or by its scientific name Stiphodon elegans feed on small

aquatic invertebrates, some algae matter also found in its diet. In captivity it will accept commercial foods,

catfish wafers, sinking pellets and frozen foods such as worms and blood worms. It is highly

recommended to chop these frozen foods into small pieces. Live foods such as Microworms, grindal

worms and white worms can be added to its diet 1-2 times a week.  

Behavior – Although they are peaceful they can be territorial with each other. 

Maintenance and care – The Stiphodon elegans should be kept in a 15 gallon fish tank decorated with

fine sand rocks and some plants. As they are bottom dwellers they do not need plenty of room to swim so

modest tank will be sufficient. As tank mates they should be kept with non aggressive fish such as

livebearers and tetras.  

Water Parameters – Temperature: 24C-28C, PH: 6-8, DH: 5-19 

Breeding – Not yet breed in captivity. In nature the male digs a pit in the substrate beneath rocks and

plants, afterwards the female will arrive to do her job, laying eggs. These eggs are soon fertilized and

guarded by the male. According to scientists fry are tiny and feed on tiny aquatic invertebrates.