Violet Dragon Goby (Gobioides Broussonnetii)

Serpentine and violet, it sifts brackish mud through dragonlike jaws.

Discover the Violet Dragon Goby (Gobioides broussonnetii): an eel-like brackish water filter feeder with striking violet hues. Ideal for mature, sandy setups.

• Water Conditions: The Violet Dragon Goby is a brackish water specialist that thrives in estuarine conditions, not pure freshwater. Maintain a specific gravity of 1.005–1.015 (rising slightly toward 1.015–1.020 as the fish matures), a pH of 7.0–8.5, and a stable temperature of 24–28°C (75–82°F). Ammonia and nitrite must read zero at all times, with nitrate kept below 20 ppm. These gobies are sensitive to poor water quality and sudden parameter swings, so a fully cycled, mature aquarium is essential. Provide gentle to moderate water movement with strong biological filtration, and ensure the tank is well oxygenated. Because they are escape artists, a tightly fitted lid with no gaps is mandatory. A sandy substrate is critical—sharp gravel can damage their delicate undersides and impede their natural sifting behaviour.
• Suitable Tank Mates: Choose peaceful to moderately active brackish water companions that will not outcompete or harass the goby. Good options include mollies, scats, monos, archerfish (in very large systems), bumblebee gobies, and other estuarine species that share the same salinity requirements. Avoid aggressive cichlids, puffers, and large predatory fish that may nip at the goby’s trailing fins. Small fish and ornamental shrimp are at risk of being eaten as the goby grows, so stock accordingly. Because Violet Dragon Gobies have poor eyesight and are slow, deliberate feeders, avoid housing them with fast, boisterous fish that will steal all the food. They can be kept singly or in small groups if the tank is spacious enough, but monitor group dynamics for competition. A minimum tank length of 120 cm (4 ft) is recommended for adults, which can reach 30–45 cm in captivity.
• Feeding Habits: In the wild, Gobioides broussonnetii is a filter feeder that sifts micro-organisms and detritus from the substrate. In captivity, they require a varied diet of small, meaty foods delivered near their resting place. Offer live or frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, mysis shrimp, cyclops, and finely chopped bloodworm. They will also accept micro-pellets and powdered foods designed for filter feeders. Because they have tiny mouths and poor vision, target feeding is often necessary—use a pipette or turkey baster to gently release food directly in front of the goby. Feed small amounts two to three times daily, ensuring the food is small enough to be swallowed. Watch for signs of weight loss or a sunken belly, which indicate the fish is not getting enough food. Never rely on leftover community tank food alone; these gobies often starve in busy aquariums without dedicated feeding.
• Care Requirements: Provide a well-established aquarium with a deep sand bed for burrowing and sifting, plus plenty of caves, PVC pipes, and driftwood to create dark hiding spots. Low to moderate lighting suits their nocturnal and crepuscular habits. Maintain a consistent maintenance routine with weekly partial water changes using properly salted water matched to the tank’s specific gravity. Acclimate new arrivals slowly via drip method, as they are sensitive to osmotic shock. Quarantine new fish before adding them to the main display. Monitor for common issues such as fungal infections on damaged fins and stress from inadequate hiding places. Because they can jump, keep the lid secure at all times. These gobies are peaceful but delicate; they are best suited to experienced aquarists who can maintain stable brackish conditions and provide targeted feeding. With proper care, the Violet Dragon Goby makes a fascinating and unusual centrepiece for a species-appropriate estuarine setup.