Bumblebee Goby ( Brachygobius xanthomelas )

A Bold Little Personality in a Tiny Package

The Bumble Bee Goby (Brachygobius xanthomelas) is one of the most charismatic nano fish you can keep. Dressed in striking black-and-yellow banding, these pocket-sized gobies bring big personality to brackish and freshwater setups alike — darting between rocks, perching on driftwood, and holding their own territory with surprising confidence.

Key Highlights

• Distinctive black and yellow banding — a true showpiece in any nano or species tank
• Active, curious, and entertaining to watch throughout the day
• Ideal for brackish setups; can also adapt to hard, alkaline freshwater
• Small size (up to 4 cm) makes them perfect for tanks as small as 40 litres
• Bottom-dwelling behaviour adds a unique dynamic to community nano tanks

Care Guide

• Tank size: 40 L minimum; species-only or carefully chosen tankmates
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• Diet: Carnivorous — prefers live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia; may refuse dry food
• Behaviour: Territorial with own kind; best kept in groups of 4+ with plenty of hiding spots

A rewarding species for the dedicated nano aquarist. Their bold markings and feisty temperament make every tank they inhabit a little more alive.