Red Birdsong Goby

Scientific Name: Stiphodon surrufus
Common Names: Red Birdsong Goby, Birdsong Goby, Emerald Cling Goby
Family: Gobiidae
Origin: South Pacific (Halmahera Island to Papua New Guinea, including Fergusson Island; fast-flowing coastal streams)
Size: 1.5–2 inches (3.8–5 cm); females slightly smaller and less colorful
Lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care

Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C); avoid prolonged exposure above 80°F.
pH: 6.5–7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline).

Oxygenation: High, requiring well-oxygenated water with powerheads or airstones

Diet: Primarily biofilm and algae grazers, feeding on aufwuchs (algae and micro-invertebrates) in the wild. Offer algae wafers, spirulina flakes, and biofilm-encouraged surfaces (e.g., smooth rocks). Supplement with small frozen foods like brine shrimp or daphnia. Feed small portions 1–2 times daily, ensuring food reaches the substrate where they graze.

Compatible with peaceful nano fish like small rasboras, tetras, or hillstream loaches. Safe with larger shrimp (e.g., Amano Shrimp) in planted tanks, though shrimplets may be eaten. Avoid aggressive fish or other bottom-dwelling gobies to prevent competition.