
Cobalt blue goby
A blue-green lateral stripe and nearly clear rounded dorsals in males.
Males have reflective blue-green sides and rounded, pale dorsal fins; pectoral rays lack the distinct dots of S. ornatus. A pale patch may show behind the pectoral base. Females have darker, serrated lateral stripes.
- Adult length
- Up to 5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
- Water temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Hardness
- 2–12 dGH
- Natural habitat
- Inhabits clear streams with moderate to swift flow over rocks and boulders, often in coastal hills and rainforest.
Check for emaciation and prepare mature feeding surfaces. Close climbing escape routes.
Appearance and identification
Compared with S. ornatus, the male dorsal is rounded, pectorals unspotted and the shoulder patch pale. S. atropurpureus is harder to distinguish; locality and scale evidence matter.
Floor and movement space
Use rounded flowing-water surfaces, sand, gravel and crevices. Allow 60 × 30 cm for a pair or small group, with more space for mixed species.
Aquarium environment
Leave grazing surfaces lit and water well oxygenated. A shaded, still, algae-free display may not meet its needs.
Diet and feeding
Monitor grazing and body condition. If surfaces are depleted, rotate stones with established growth. Check that it accepts prepared food.
Same-species behaviour
Females may aggregate loosely while males compete. Distribute food surfaces and watch weaker fish.
Compatibility limits
Aggressive feeders and territorial bottom fish can exclude it.
