Peacock gudgeon (pair)

Peacock Gudgeon (Tateurndina ocellicauda)

Common names: Peacock Gudgeon, Peacock Goby
Family: Eleotridae
Origin: Clear streams of Papua New Guinea
Size: Up to 7.5 cm (3 inches)
Lifespan: Around 4–5 years
Temperament: Peaceful and social

Appearance

• Males are more colorful — shimmering blue and yellow bodies with red spotting and a distinct black spot near the tail (the “eye spot”).

• Females are smaller with rounder bellies and less intense colors.

• They’re known for their vibrant “peacock-like” iridescence — hence the name.

Tank Setup

• Minimum tank size: 15–20 gallons for a small group.

• Water parameters:

  • Temperature: 22–26 °C

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

  • Soft to moderately hard water.

• Habitat needs:

  • Gentle water flow.

  • Plants, rocks, and caves for hiding and spawning.

  • Secure lid (they can jump!).

  • Dim or moderate lighting enhances their coloration.

Diet

• Omnivorous, but prefer meaty foods.

• Feed a mix of:

  • Live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms).

  • Micro pellets and flakes.

• Variety in diet keeps their colors vibrant and health strong.

Behavior & Compatibility

• Very peaceful — ideal for community tanks with small, calm species (like tetras, rasboras, Corydoras).

• Slightly territorial males, especially during breeding.

• Enjoy living in groups (one male with multiple females works best).

Breeding

• Cave spawners — males court females into a cave to lay eggs.

• The male guards and fans the eggs until they hatch (in ~7 days).

• Fry can be raised on infusoria or micro-worms initially.

Care Tips

• Sensitive to poor water quality — needs clean, stable conditions.

• Avoid keeping them with fin-nippers or aggressive species.

• Great for planted aquariums due to their calm nature and small size.

Quick Summary