The Knight Goby (Stigmatogobius sadanundio) is a small yet stunning goby species known for its shimmering silver-gray body, blue speckles, and distinct knight-like appearance. At just 3cm, these juveniles are perfect for nano tanks with brackish or adaptable freshwater setups, and their peaceful temperament makes them a great fit for calm community aquariums.

Originating from South and Southeast Asia, the Knight Goby inhabits estuaries, streams, and mangrove zones, which means it can thrive in both brackish and light freshwater tanks. With their curious nature and occasional "perching" behavior on rocks or plant leaves, Knight Gobies are not only beautiful but also entertaining to watch.

🐠 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Stigmatogobius sadanundio

• Common Name: Knight Goby

• Size: 3cm (juvenile), up to 6–8cm as adult

• Temperament: Peaceful, slightly territorial toward own kind

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate

• Tank Zone: Bottom to mid-level

• Adaptable to freshwater or low-brackish tanks

🌊 Water Conditions

While often found in brackish environments, Knight Gobies can adapt to freshwater if parameters are stable.

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.8

• Hardness: 8–20 dGH

• Salinity (optional): 1.002–1.005 SG (for brackish setups)

• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Filtration: Moderate flow, well-oxygenated

• Decor: Smooth stones, driftwood, dense plants, caves

Provide hiding spots and territories if keeping multiple males to reduce skirmishes.

🐟 Tank Mates

Knight Gobies are peaceful but may nip at slow or long-finned tank mates, so select companions carefully.

Recommended tank mates:

• Mollies (brackish or hardy freshwater)

• Guppies and Endlers

• Bumblebee gobies

• Swordtails or Platies

• Amano shrimp or Nerite snails (with caution)

Avoid:

• Very small or timid fish

• Long-finned species (e.g., Betta, fancy guppies)

• Aggressive or overly territorial fish

Best kept singly or in pairs unless the tank is large enough to support multiple territories.

🍽️ Feeding Habits

Knight Gobies are carnivorous micro-predators, requiring a protein-rich diet of small live or frozen foods.

Preferred diet includes:

• Live or frozen brine shrimp

• Bloodworms, blackworms, daphnia

• Micropellets and sinking carnivore granules

• Repashy gel food (protein blend)

Feed once or twice daily, making sure food sinks or stays low in the water column for easier access.

🧼 Care Tips:

• Keep water clean and well-oxygenated with weekly 25–30% water changes

• Consider adding marine salt for brackish setups, which boosts health and coloration

• Use fine substrate to support natural foraging and reduce mouth injury

• Provide visual barriers to avoid territorial stress

• Ensure tight-fitting lids, as they may jump if startled

🌿 Why Choose the Knight Goby?

The Knight Goby combines elegance, activity, and versatility, making it a standout for aquarists who enjoy brackish or freshwater biotopes. With its shimmering appearance, peaceful personality, and natural curiosity, it adds color and charm to the bottom levels of your tank.

Give your aquarium a noble touch—choose the Knight Goby today!