Rainbow Stiphodon Goby - Stiphodon ornatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Ornate Stiphodon Goby (Stiphodon ornatus) is a captivating species within the Gobiidae family, native to the freshwater streams and rivers of Indonesia. Renowned for their striking appearance, these Gobies exhibit a remarkable blend of vibrant colours and intricate patterns, making them a visually appealing addition to any freshwater aquarium. The Ornate Stiphodon Goby, with its distinctive appearance and intriguing behaviour, offers a unique opportunity for aquarists to explore the diversity of the Goby family.
Rainbow Stiphodon Gobies are well-suited for a community tank with other small, peaceful fish, making them excellent companions for species like small Rasboras, Tetras, and Hillstream Loaches. Their diminutive size and specific dietary habits also allow for cohabitation with dwarf shrimp, though there is a possibility of the gobies preying on shrimp fry.
Additionally, larger, peaceful invertebrates can also be good tankmates, provided they are not small enough to be consumed. While peaceful bottom-dwellers can coexist with these gobies, it's important to ensure that the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby is not deprived of food due to competition. Although males can be somewhat territorial, especially during breeding periods, a larger aquarium can comfortably house several males alongside multiple females, ideally maintaining a ratio of one male to at least two females.
Maintaining excellent water quality is crucial for the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby, as they are sensitive to water conditions. A habitat with a sandy substrate and an assortment of smooth rocks and pebbles, simulating their natural environment, is ideal. The provision of burrow-like structures is recommended to accommodate their sleeping habits. With proper care and a well-maintained, mature aquarium, the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby proves to be a hardy and engaging species that is compatible with aquarium plants.
Visually, Rainbow Stiphodon Gobies display a dynamic range in colouration, with their base body colour varying from pale olive to dark brown, accented by dark-edged scales. They can quickly shift to darker patterns, with the extent of this colour change varying widely among individuals. The lower part of the head and mouth can range from orange or gold to a striking blue, while the fins predominantly feature orange or red hues with dark rays. The second dorsal, anal, and upper edge of the caudal fins are bordered in a whitish-blue tone, and all fins showcase irregular rows of dark markings. In darker individuals, the fins may appear almost completely black.
Females are generally more subdued in appearance, characterized by two dark lateral body stripes. Identifying females can be challenging due to the presence of many Stiphodon species with similar colouration patterns. This diversity in appearance adds to the allure of the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby, making it a fascinating species for aquarists seeking both aesthetic beauty and interesting behavioural dynamics in their aquariums.
Rainbow Stiphodon Goby Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female Rainbow Stiphodon Gobies is a straightforward process, primarily due to the distinct colour differences between the sexes. Males are characterized by their more vibrant and intense colouration, making them stand out. In contrast, females, while not as brightly coloured as males, still possess their own attractive and distinct markings.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Stiphodon ornatus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1974 |
| Other Names | Ornate Rainbow Goby |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Gobiiformes |
| Family | Oxudercidae |
| Genus | Stiphodon |
| Origins | Indonesia |
| Max Size | 5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | NA |
| Best kept as | 2 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 4 - 10 |
| ℉ | 68 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 20 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
The Rainbow Stiphodon Goby, a unique species within the Gobiidae family, is native to the Barung Belantai River in West Sumatra, Indonesia, a region in Southeast Asia. This species thrives in shallow, transparent waters characterized by their rapid flow, often found in locales situated above large waterfalls.
Their natural habitat typically features bedrock substrates interspersed with an array of large stones and rocks. While submerged leaf litter and streamside and riverine vegetation are commonly observed in these environments, aquatic plants are generally not a prominent feature. The specific ecological conditions of these habitats, including the water flow and substrate composition, play a crucial role in supporting the lifestyle and behaviours of the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby.
Breeding
Similar to other species in the Stiphodon genus, the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby undergoes a unique developmental stage known as the pelagic phase. During this phase, the fry, initially hatched in freshwater, is swiftly carried out to the ocean. In these marine conditions, they undergo a period of growth and maturation.
Once matured, they instinctively return to freshwater environments, swimming upstream to initiate their spawning cycle. This complex life cycle, involving transitions between marine and freshwater habitats, has posed significant challenges for breeding Rainbow Stiphodon Gobies in captivity, and as such, there have been no recorded instances of successful aquarium breeding of this species to date.
Diet & Feeding
In their natural habitat, Rainbow Stiphodon Gobies primarily subsist on a diet rich in algae and microorganisms found on riverbeds, displaying a preference for biofilm and small invertebrates. This feeding habit underscores their role as grazers in the ecosystem. In captivity, mirroring this diet is essential for their health and wellbeing.
The dietary regimen for Rainbow Stiphodon Gobies in an aquarium should include algae-based foods, such as high-quality algae wafers and spirulina, to replicate their natural consumption of biofilm. Additionally, supplementing with small live or frozen foods like daphnia or brine shrimp provides necessary nutrients and encourages their natural foraging behaviour.
It's important to ensure a varied and balanced diet to maintain their health and vibrant colouration. Regular feeding in controlled portions is crucial to prevent overfeeding and maintain optimal water quality.
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