Description
The Knight Goby, also known as the Knight Sleeper Goby, is a hardy and attractive species native to freshwater and brackish waters of Southeast Asia (India, Bangladesh, and surrounding regions). With a slender, elongated body and silvery-gray base color, it’s adorned with distinctive dark blotches and a subtle iridescent shimmer. Males often display more intense coloration and develop extended dorsal fins.
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Scientific name: Stigmatogobius sadanundio
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Common names: Knight Goby, Knight Sleeper Goby
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Adult size: 8–10 cm (3–4 inches)
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Lifespan: 3–5 years
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Temperament: Semi-aggressive (especially with smaller fish or conspecifics)
Tank Requirements
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Tank size: Minimum 60 liters (ideally larger for a group)
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Water type: Brackish preferred, though can adapt to freshwater temporarily
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Salinity: 1.005–1.010 SG for optimal health
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pH: 7.0–8.5
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Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
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Substrate: Sandy or fine gravel (they enjoy digging)
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Décor: Provide rocks, caves, driftwood for hiding, and plenty of open swimming space
Diet
Knight Gobies are carnivorous and thrive on a protein-rich diet. They often ignore dry food at first but can adapt.
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Ideal foods: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, chopped seafood, tubifex worms, live or frozen daphnia
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Optional: High-quality sinking carnivore pellets (with acclimation)
Tank Mates
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Best kept with brackish-compatible species of similar size and temperament (e.g., mollies, archerfish, bumblebee gobies)
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Avoid small fish or shrimp, as Knight Gobies may eat them
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Can be territorial with their own kind unless in a spacious tank with hiding spots
Care Notes
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Water quality is key – they’re sensitive to poor conditions
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Not ideal for planted tanks, especially in brackish setups
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Prefer low-flow areas and subdued lighting
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Secure the lid – gobies may jump when startled
