RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:Temperature: 68°-82.4° F (20°-28° C).  High dissolved oxygen levels are very important in higher temperatures.pH: 6.5-7.5KH: 4 - 8 dKHMinimum Tank Size: 10 gallons for a single specimen or pair, 30+ gallons for a groupThe Rainbow Stiphodon Goby (Stiphodon ornatus) is a rare freshwater goby that is native to West Sumatra, Indonesia. It is known for the multi-colored spotting male (and some female) specimens display.  Females are not as colorful, but are still very attractively marked. This fascinating, peaceful fish is primarily a biofilm grazer that rarely exceeds 2 inches in length.  An aquarium with very clean, clear water is required for the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby.  This fish is native to shallow, clear, fast-flowing waters and it is sensitive to declines in water quality, so regular aquarium maintenance is a must.  It prefers a sandy substrate with several smooth rocks and pebbles in which it can perch.  The Rainbow Stiphodon Goby often sleeps in burrows, so similar structures should be provided in its aquascape.   The Rainbow Stiphodon Goby feeds mostly on biofilm, but also sparingly supplements its diets with small, meaty foods. In the aquarium, it is known to readily accept frozen meaty foods such as bloodworms and Artemia, but such foods should not be fed more than occasionally. Consistent, plentiful biofilm is absolutely essential for the longterm health of the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby.  This fish will also sometimes accept high-quality dry foods, but it will not thrive long-term on such a diet. As long as it is kept in a well-maintained, mature aquarium, the Rainbow Goby is a hardy and entertaining fish. It will not bother aquarium plants. In fact, Anubias species are an excellent plant to keep with this goby. The Rainbow Goby inhabits waterways with temperatures that range from subtropical to tropical.  Most small rasboras, tetras, hillstream loaches, and other small, peaceful fish are good tankmates for the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby.  Due to its small size and diet, the Rainbow Goby can also be kept with dwarf shrimp, although it might eat a few of their fry.  Almost any other peaceful invertebrates that are large enough not to be eaten can make good tankmates as well. Peaceful bottom-dwelling fish are also a possibility, but care must be taken to make sure that the Rainbow Stiphodon Goby is not outcompeted for food.