Chiangmai Stream Goby

About

Tucked away in the clear, fast-moving hill streams of Thailand, Rhinogobius chiengmaiensis is a small goby that rarely exceeds two inches in length. Like others in this genus, it sports the flattened, bottom-hugging body shape that makes gobies so well suited to life in current-swept rocky habitats, using its fused pelvic fins to anchor itself against the flow. In the wild it hunts insect larvae, small fish, and shrimp, so expect that same predatory streak in the aquarium. Anything small enough to fit in its mouth is fair game. Despite that carnivorous attitude, its compact size keeps it manageable, and its general hardiness makes it a reasonable choice even for newer fishkeepers willing to do a little research on stream-adapted species. A species like this appreciates good water movement and well-oxygenated conditions that mimic its native habitat, along with plenty of rockwork and hiding spots to break up sight lines and give it territory to call its own. It remains a relatively obscure species in the hobby, so finding it may take some searching through specialist importers, but it rewards patient seekers with an interesting, active, and characterful little fish.