MEKONG DWARF BUMBLE BEE GOBY 2CM
$7.50
10 in stock
The Brachygobius sabanus, commonly referred to as the Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Goby, is a small and vibrant freshwater fish native to the rivers and estuaries of Vietnam. Renowned for its striking black and yellow striped body, this goby mimics the colouration of a bumblebee, which adds a vivid contrast to any aquarium setup. Typically growing to just 3-4 cm (1.2-1.6 inches) in length, the Vietnamese Bumblebee Goby is ideal for nano tanks or as part of a larger community aquarium with similarly sized, peaceful species.
Preferring slightly brackish water conditions, this goby thrives with a fine sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spots such as rocks, driftwood, and dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat and reduce stress. The Vietnamese Bumblebee Goby is a bottom-dweller who enjoys scavenging for food and is best fed a diet of small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and microworms to maintain optimal health and colouration.
Due to their peaceful nature and distinct appearance, the Vietnamese Bumblebee Goby is a popular choice among aquarists seeking to add unique biodiversity and visual appeal to their tanks. Care should be taken to ensure the tank is well-maintained with stable water conditions, as gobies can be sensitive to environmental changes. With the right care, these gobies provide an engaging and colourful addition to any suitable freshwater or brackish aquarium.
Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Goby Care Guide
Introduction
The Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Goby, scientifically known as Brachygobius sabanus, is a small and vibrantly patterned fish native to the Mekong River Basin in Southeast Asia. This species is noted for its striking yellow and black banded appearance, which resembles the pattern of a bumblebee, making it a popular choice for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts seeking visually striking additions to their nano tanks.
Natural Habitat
In the wild, the Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Goby inhabits slow-moving streams and ponds with abundant vegetation and sandy substrates. These environments are typically brackish but can range from fresh to fully marine, indicating the species’ remarkable adaptability to different salinity levels.
Aquarium Setup
To replicate their natural habitat, an aquarium for Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Gobies should include a soft sandy substrate for digging and ample hiding places such as rocks, driftwood, and dense plantings. While they can tolerate a range of salinity, slightly brackish water conditions are ideal. Given their diminutive size and relatively peaceful nature, a small tank of 10 gallons can suffice for a small group.
Water Parameters
The ideal water temperature for keeping Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Gobies is between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 26°C), with a pH of 7.0 to 8.2. If opting for brackish conditions, a specific gravity of 1.005 to 1.010 is recommended. Regular water changes are crucial to maintain clean and stable water conditions.
Diet and Feeding
These gobies are primarily carnivorous, requiring a diet rich in protein. Feed a variety of live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Due to their small mouths, food size should be small, and feeding should occur twice daily in small amounts to ensure optimal health and colouration.
Behaviour and Social Structure
Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Gobies are generally peaceful but can be territorial with their own kind, especially in smaller tanks. They thrive in small groups if enough space and hiding spots are provided to prevent aggression.
Compatibility with Other Species
Due to their peaceful nature and small size, these gobies are best kept with other small, non-aggressive species that thrive in similar brackish conditions. Care should be taken to avoid larger or more aggressive fish that might bully or eat the small gobies.
Breeding
Breeding Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Gobies in captivity can be challenging but is possible under the right conditions. They are cave spawners, and providing plenty of caves and a slightly increased salinity can encourage spawning. The males guard the eggs, which hatch in about a week.
Health Considerations
Monitor water quality as poor conditions can quickly lead to health issues such as infections and stress. Regular tank maintenance and careful monitoring of water parameters are essential for the well-being of these gobies.
Conclusion
The Mekong Dwarf Bumblebee Goby is a delightful addition to any suitable freshwater or brackish aquarium. With their unique appearance and interesting behaviour, they offer much to enjoy for attentive aquarists willing to meet their specific care requirements.
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