Common Name: Empire Gudgeon
Scientific Name: Hypseleotris compressa
Other Names: Australian Gudgeon, Northern Purple Spotted Gudgeon
The Empire Gudgeon is a stunning and highly adaptable species of sleeper goby known for its vibrant coloration and unique breeding behaviors. Males display striking red and orange hues on their dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, especially during the breeding season, while females have a more subdued brownish-gold coloration. This species is highly active and thrives in both freshwater and brackish environments, making it a versatile choice for aquarists.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to Australia and New Guinea, the Empire Gudgeon is found in a wide range of habitats, including slow-moving rivers, lakes, billabongs, and estuarine environments. They prefer areas with abundant submerged vegetation, leaf litter, and sandy or muddy substrates. This species is known for its ability to tolerate varying salinity levels, as it can be found in both freshwater and brackish water conditions.
Size and Lifespan:
Empire Gudgeons typically grow to about 4 inches (10 cm) in length, with males being slightly larger and more colorful than females. With proper care, they can live for 5-8 years.
Diet and Behavior:
This species is an opportunistic omnivore, feeding on small invertebrates, algae, and detritus in the wild. In captivity, their diet should include high-quality sinking pellets or flakes, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia, and occasional plant-based foods like spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables. They are peaceful but can become territorial during breeding. Generally, they do well in community tanks with similarly sized tank mates.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Empire Gudgeons are substrate spawners, with males establishing territories and courting females through elaborate fin displays and color changes. To encourage breeding, provide flat rocks or broad leaves for egg-laying, maintain a slightly elevated temperature, and ensure stable water conditions. After spawning, the male guards the eggs until they hatch, which typically takes 3-5 days. The larvae are very small and require microscopic live foods such as infusoria or rotifers before transitioning to baby brine shrimp.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a group, with larger tanks preferred for breeding or mixed-community setups. Their ideal tank setup includes a sandy or fine gravel substrate, submerged plants and driftwood for cover, gentle to moderate filtration with well-oxygenated water, and moderate lighting with shaded areas to mimic natural habitats.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Empire Gudgeons are generally peaceful and can be kept with similarly sized, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include peaceful Australian and Southeast Asian species such as rainbowfish (Melanotaenia spp.), small loaches, peaceful barbs, and other gudgeons. Avoid highly aggressive fish or very small tank mates that may be outcompeted for food.
Difficulty Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. They are hardy and adaptable but require stable water conditions and a well-balanced diet to maintain their vibrant coloration.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
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pH: 6.5-8.0
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-12 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular water changes required)
Additional Information:
- Males develop their most intense coloration during the breeding season, making them a visually stunning display fish.
- They are highly adaptable and can be kept in both freshwater and low-end brackish conditions.
- They prefer well-structured environments with plants and driftwood, providing plenty of hiding spots.
The Empire Gudgeon is a hardy and colorful species that adds a unique personality to aquariums. With their vibrant colors and fascinating breeding behavior, they are an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
