The Bumblebee Goby, scientifically known as Brachygobius xanthozonus, is a fascinating and colorful freshwater fish that adds a burst of personality and charm to any aquarium. With their small size and vibrant black and yellow stripes, Bumblebee Gobies are popular choices among aquarists who seek unique and eye-catching fish for their tanks. Despite their diminutive appearance, these gobies have big personalities and interesting behaviors that captivate the attention of hobbyists. Let's explore a detailed description of this remarkable fish, including essential information on its appearance, water conditions, tank setup, feeding habits, and care.

Appearance:

• Vibrant Stripes: Bumblebee Gobies feature striking black and yellow horizontal stripes across their body, resembling the markings of a bumblebee.
• Small Size: They are tiny fish, reaching an adult length of around 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 centimeters).
• Unique Fin Arrangement: Bumblebee Gobies have two dorsal fins positioned close together, giving them a distinctive appearance.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Maintain a tropical water temperature range of 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) for the well-being of the Bumblebee Goby.
• pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.5 and 7.5 to replicate their natural habitat.
• Water Hardness: Provide a moderate water hardness level between 5 and 15 dGH.
• Filtration: Efficient filtration and regular water changes are crucial to maintain excellent water quality.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: Bumblebee Gobies can be kept in a small tank of at least 10 gallons (38 liters) due to their small size and minimal swimming activity.
• Aquascape: Create a natural environment with sandy substrate, rocks, and driftwood to mimic their native habitats in brackish estuaries.
• Brackish Conditions: Bumblebee Gobies prefer slightly brackish water, so adding a small amount of marine salt is recommended.

Feeding Habit:

• Carnivorous Diet: Bumblebee Gobies are carnivores and primarily feed on small live or frozen foods.
• Small Prey Items: Offer small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, or tiny insect larvae.
• Supplementary Foods: Provide high-quality sinking pellets or flakes as supplementary foods, but live foods should form a significant part of their diet.

Care:

• Peaceful Nature: Bumblebee Gobies are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful brackish water species.
• Group Size: Keep them in a small group of at least three individuals to encourage their natural social behavior and reduce stress.
• Observation: Monitor their behavior and appearance to ensure they are healthy and showing no signs of stress or illness.