Orange-fin Stiphodon
Stiphodon maculidorsalis
A tiny Indonesian stream goby with bold dorsal markings worth seeking out.
About
Found tumbling through clear, fast-flowing streams in Indonesia, Stiphodon maculidorsalis is a dwarf goby that rarely exceeds two inches even in adulthood. Like other stiphodons, it belongs to a group of gobies that spend their early larval stage at sea before migrating upstream into freshwater. A life history that makes wild populations dependent on unobstructed river corridors. The species gets its name from the spotted or mottled patterning on the dorsal fin, which is particularly vivid in males during display. Males of this genus are generally more colorful than females and will establish small territories, though serious aggression is uncommon in a well-arranged tank. In the aquarium, these gobies hug the bottom and graze constantly on biofilm and algae growing across rocks and hardscape, so a mature tank with good surface growth on stones is really the key to keeping them well. Water movement matters too. They come from riffles and appreciate decent flow. Despite those habitat requirements, they are considered manageable for beginners who can provide the right setup. Tankmates should be peaceful and small; anything large or boisterous will stress them into hiding.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Orange-fin Stiphodon
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Orange-fin Stiphodon get?
- The Orange-fin Stiphodon reaches about 1.5–2" as an adult.
- Is the Orange-fin Stiphodon aggressive?
- The Orange-fin Stiphodon is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- What does the Orange-fin Stiphodon eat?
- The Orange-fin Stiphodon is a herbivore. It needs a plant-based diet such as algae, blanched vegetables, or spirulina-based foods.