Red Teardrop Goby

Rare, charming, and wonderfully unique — the Red Teardrop Goby is a captivating small goby prized for its distinctive red teardrop marking beneath the eye and its bold, colourful patterning. A fascinating and peaceful bottom-dweller that brings personality and colour to any freshwater aquarium.

Overview

Appearance

The Red Teardrop Goby displays a warm tan to olive body with intricate red-orange spotting and patterning, and the distinctive red teardrop marking beneath each eye that gives this fish its common name. Males are more vividly coloured, especially during breeding condition, when their colours intensify dramatically. Their fused pelvic fins form a suction disc that allows them to cling to rocks and substrate in flowing water.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 65 – 75°F (18 – 24°C) — a cool-water species
• pH: 7.0 – 8.0
• General Hardness (GH): 8 – 20 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons
• Flow: Moderate to strong — they come from well-oxygenated streams
• Substrate: Smooth river gravel or sand with flat rocks
• Decor: Caves, flat rocks, and hiding spots for territory

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: Sinking pellets and carnivore wafers
• Treats: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and small earthworms

Feed once or twice daily.

Compatibility

Best kept with cool-water fish of similar size. Avoid housing with very small fish or shrimp. Males are territorial with each other — provide ample space and visual barriers.

The Red Teardrop Goby is a rare and fascinating fish that rewards patient aquarists with its bold markings and engaging personality. A wonderful addition to any cool-water or hillstream biotope aquarium.