The Dragon Microgoby (Schismatogobius ampluvinculus) is a fascinating nano goby species known for its vivid dragon-scale patterns, striking coloration, and peaceful temperament. Reaching only about 2.5cm, this tiny freshwater goby is ideal for planted aquariums, shrimp-safe community tanks, and enthusiasts of rare and unusual species.

Hailing from the clean, slow-moving freshwater streams of Southeast Asia, Dragon Microgobies thrive in well-oxygenated, soft-water environments with plenty of hiding spaces and fine sand or smooth substrate. Their dragon-like markings, often featuring iridescent spots or stripes on a pale body with bold face masks, make them a visually captivating addition to nano aquascapes.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Schismatogobius ampluvinculus

• Common Name: Dragon Microgoby

• Size: 2.5cm (adult)

• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, bottom-dwelling

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate

• Tank Level: Bottom

• Ideal for nano tanks, aquascapes, and shrimp communities

🌊 Water Conditions

Dragon Microgobies require clean, stable conditions and soft water to mimic their natural habitat.

• Temperature: 22–26°C (72–79°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: 2–10 dGH

• Tank Size: 10+ gallons for a group

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Filtration: Gentle flow (sponge or soft-flow HOB)

• Lighting: Moderate to low (prefer shaded areas)

• Decor: Dense plants, rocks, driftwood, leaf litter

They benefit from oxygen-rich water, so gentle aeration is recommended.

🐟 Tank Mates

Thanks to their calm and non-aggressive nature, Dragon Microgobies are ideal tank mates for peaceful nano species.

Compatible with:

• Dwarf rasboras (e.g., Chili Rasbora)

• Pygmy Corydoras

• Ember tetras

• Freshwater snails

• Neocaridina or Caridina shrimp (generally safe)

Avoid:

• Large or aggressive fish

• Fast-feeding species that may outcompete them

• Bottom dwellers that disturb sand beds

They’re best kept in groups of 3–6 to feel more secure and show natural behavior.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

These gobies are micro-predators, and due to their small mouths and shyness, they need appropriately sized, high-quality food.

Preferred diet:

• Live baby brine shrimp

• Daphnia, cyclops, grindal worms

• Frozen microfoods

• Powdered or crushed sinking pellets

• Repashy gel foods (cut to size)

Feed once or twice daily, ideally when tank mates are less active, to ensure food reaches them.

🧼 Care Tips:

• Use a fine sandy substrate to allow natural foraging behavior

• Keep water clean—perform weekly 20–30% water changes

• Secure tank lid; although not jumpers, they can be startled

• Avoid aggressive tank mates or fast flow, as these fish are shy

• Add hiding spots (small caves or leaf litter) to reduce stress

They may hide initially but will emerge confidently in a stable, peaceful tank.

🌿 Why Choose the Dragon Microgoby?

With their tiny size, dragon-scale markings, and gentle behavior, Dragon Microgobies are a rare gem for any nano or shrimp-safe tank. Their active foraging, unusual look, and compatibility with other peaceful species make them a rewarding choice for both aquascaping enthusiasts and collectors of unique freshwater fish.

Bring mythical beauty to your aquarium—add Dragon Microgobies today!