Bumblebee Goby

The Bumblebee Goby ( Brachygobius xanthomelas) is a tiny, charismatic fish with alternating bands of  black and yellow. Reaching a maximum size of only 3.5 cm , these little guys are full of personality. The Bumblebee Goby has a blunt face and modified pelvic fins that allow it to “hop” along the bottom or suction itself to rocks, glass, and broad-leafed plants.

We strongly suggest keeping them in a group of 6–10. They are surprisingly social but can be mildly territorial with their own kind. Provide plenty of “caves” and hiding spots allows them to establish small territories while remaining part of a colony. Generally peaceful with other species but can be fin nippers if kept with tankmates that have long fluttery fins. While B. doriae is often found in freshwater, they truly thrive in mildly brackish water (a specific gravity of 1.002–1.005), though they can adapt to hard, alkaline freshwater with a pH of 7.5–8.5.

Because of their specific water preferences and territorial nature, they are best kept in a species-only setup or with other hard-water residents like Mollies. Be aware that they are specialised predators, they often ignore flakes and pellets entirely. To keep them healthy, you must provide live or frozen meaty foods. Their favourite meals include frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia, which they will “pounce” on from their perching spot.