Goby-Knight

All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.

When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.

ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.

Knight Goby (Stiphodon spp.)

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Body: Small and cylindrical, with a robust build. The Knight Goby has a relatively short and stocky body.
  • Color: Typically features a mix of dark and light colors, with some species displaying vibrant blue, green, or yellowish hues. They often have distinct, patterned markings that can include stripes or spots.
  • Size: Generally grows to about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in length.

• Behavior:

  • Activity: Semi-active and tends to stay near the bottom or in hiding spots. They are known for their territorial nature and can be seen establishing small territories.
  • Social Structure: Peaceful but can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks or with other bottom-dwellers. They prefer to be kept in groups but can also adapt to being kept singly or in pairs.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum of 20 gallons (76 liters). A larger tank is better to provide ample space for swimming and to accommodate their territorial behavior.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C). They prefer a warm environment.
  • pH: 6.5-7.5. They thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions.
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water. They can adapt to various hardness levels but do best in moderately soft water.
  • Filtration: Good filtration is essential for maintaining water quality, but avoid excessive water flow, as Knight Gobies prefer calmer waters.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel. A soft substrate is ideal as they spend time near the bottom and may sift through it.
  • Aquascaping: Provide plenty of hiding spots and cover using rocks, driftwood, and plants. They appreciate having places to retreat and establish territories.
  • Lighting: Low to moderate lighting is suitable. They do not have specific lighting needs but should have a regular light/dark cycle.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
  • Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like finely chopped seafood or algae wafers.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Best kept with other small, peaceful fish. Avoid larger or aggressive species that might harass them. Suitable tank mates include small community fish and other gobies.
  • Social Behavior: They prefer to be in small groups of at least 3-4 individuals to feel secure and display natural behavior. However, they can adapt to being kept singly or in pairs if necessary.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are important to maintain water quality and manage the bioload.
  • Cleaning: Clean the tank regularly and remove any uneaten food or waste. Monitor the filtration system to ensure it is functioning properly without creating excessive water movement.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or fin damage.
  • Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if health issues arise. Address any signs of disease or stress promptly to ensure the well-being of your Knight Goby.