The Peacock Gudgeon, native to eastern Papua New Guinea, is a striking species ideal for specialist community aquariums. These fish inhabit soft, acidic rainforest ponds, streams, and rivulets in the wild, where they form loose shoals and hover near the substrate. To replicate their natural environment, the aquarium should feature a soft sand substrate, dense vegetation, driftwood, and rocky caves to provide ample hiding spots. A biologically mature setup with soft, slightly acidic water is crucial, and peat filtration can help achieve optimal conditions. Dim lighting, possibly diffused by floating plants, is recommended, and water flow should be gentle. Ensure the tank has a tightly fitting lid, as these fish are skilled jumpers.
Though they can be mildly territorial, especially with their own kind, keeping a group of six or more reduces aggression and promotes natural behavior. In a well-decorated tank, territorial disputes are limited to harmless displays like flaring fins. A larger group also increases the likelihood of obtaining both sexes, and the males’ colorful courtship displays are a sight to behold. Suitable tankmates include peaceful species like small rainbowfish, rasboras, and tetras. In smaller aquariums, Peacock Gudgeons should have exclusive use of the bottom area, but in larger setups, other calm bottom-dwellers can be included. Be cautious, as larger individuals may prey on very small fish or fry.
The Peacock Gudgeon is also known as the Peacock Goby and displays sexual dimorphism. Males are larger, more vibrantly colored, and develop elongated fins and a nuchal hump when ready to spawn. Females, especially juveniles, often display black bars along their dorsal and anal fins, which are absent in males. Adults can reach a maximum size of 7.5 cm (3 inches).
Feeding
These fish thrive on a varied diet of small, meaty foods. They enthusiastically accept frozen options like bloodworms, mosquito larvae, daphnia, and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp. Over time, they may also take small sinking pellets, granules, and flake food.
Breeding
Peacock Gudgeons are rewarding to breed and make an excellent project for hobbyists. Compatible pairs often form naturally in a group. To encourage spawning, feed them a diet of live and frozen meaty foods and provide caves made from rocks, PVC pipes, or other materials. Dense planting in a breeding tank offers additional cover and comfort. Frequent small water changes can trigger spawning, and gravid females appear noticeably swollen with eggs.
Males attract females to their chosen caves by displaying and flaring their fins. If successful, the female lays her eggs on the cave’s ceiling, where the male fertilizes them. Afterward, the male drives the female out and takes over brood care, fanning the eggs with his fins to ensure proper oxygenation. Eggs hatch within 3-6 days, depending on temperature, and the male ceases caregiving once they hatch. At this point, it is best to remove him to another tank. Fry become free-swimming within 36-48 hours and initially require infusoria before transitioning to baby brine shrimp. Regular water changes and stable conditions are essential for raising the fry successfully.