Violet Goby

The Prehistoric Dragon Fish (Gobioides broussonnetii) is a unique brackish water fish known for its elongated body and peaceful nature. Reaching up to 20in (~51cm) in length, this species thrives in brackish environments, particularly in estuaries and mangroves of the Western Atlantic. It prefers a diet of live or frozen foods but may accept high-quality pellets as well. These fish should be kept in a minimum tank size of 25 gal (~100L) with a group of at least three to ensure proper social interaction. The tank should feature both hiding spots and open swimming areas, using soft substrate for comfort.…

Find This Product At the Following Site:

Brands:

Description

The Prehistoric Dragon Fish (Gobioides broussonnetii) is a unique brackish water fish known for its elongated body and peaceful nature. Reaching up to 20in (~51cm) in length, this species thrives in brackish environments, particularly in estuaries and mangroves of the Western Atlantic. It prefers a diet of live or frozen foods but may accept high-quality pellets as well.

These fish should be kept in a minimum tank size of 25 gal (~100L) with a group of at least three to ensure proper social interaction. The tank should feature both hiding spots and open swimming areas, using soft substrate for comfort. Regular monitoring of water salinity and stable parameters is essential for their well-being, making them suitable for community tanks with other non-aggressive species.

Additional Information

Also Known As

Overview

Quarantine Method Summary
Quarantine for at least 2 weeks in a separate tank to monitor for diseases.
Disease Sensitivity
Moderate
Medication Sensitivity
High; avoid copper-based medications.
Short Description
A unique brackish water fish known for its elongated body and peaceful nature.
Care Overview
Requires a well-maintained brackish environment with stable water parameters. Suitable for community tanks with similar species.
Compatibility Notes
Peaceful; can be kept with other non-aggressive fish. Avoid fin-nippers.
Aquascape Notes
Provide hiding spots and open swimming areas; use soft substrate.
Special Requirements
Requires brackish water conditions; monitor salinity closely.
Quarantine Notes
Monitor for signs of stress or disease during quarantine; treat as necessary.

Identity & Taxonomy

Scientific Name
Gobioides broussonnetii
Genus
Gobioides
Species
broussonnetii
Authority Name
Cuvier
Authority Year
1829
Primary Common Name
Prehistoric Dragon Fish
Native Region
Western Atlantic
Native Habitat
Brackish waters, estuaries, and mangroves
Organism Type
Fish

Care & Behavior

Adult Size
6 – 8 in (15.2 – 20.3 cm)
Lifespan
5 – 10 years
Minimum Tank Size
26.5 gal (100.3 L)
Feeding Frequency
2-3 times per week
Special Diet Notes
Prefers live or frozen foods; may accept high-quality pellets.
Schooling Required
Yes
School Min Group
3
Temperament
Peaceful
Activity Level
Moderate
Tank Level
Bottom
Diet Type
Carnivore

Water & Environment

Temperature
75 – 82 °F (24 – 28 °C)
pH
6.5 – 8
GH
10 – 20
KH
5 – 15
Salinity
1.005 – 1.015
Specific Gravity
1.005 – 1.015
Flow Level
Moderate
Lighting Level
Low to moderate
Nitrate Max
20
Phosphate Max
0.5
Water Type
brackish

Compatibility & Breeding

Sexual Dimorphism
Males are generally smaller with more vibrant colors.
Plant Safe
✓
Wild Caught Common
✓
Egg Layer
✓
Breeding Difficulty
Difficult

Quarantine

Recommended Duration
14 – 30 days
Quarantine Required
Yes
Observation Only
No
Prophylactic Treatment
No
Copper Safe
No
Formalin Safe
Yes
Praziquantel Safe
Yes
Methylene Blue Safe
Yes
Hyposalinity Safe
Yes
Freshwater Dip Safe
No
Dip Protocol Summary
Use a 5-minute freshwater dip for parasites if necessary.
Medication Notes
Avoid copper; use formalin or praziquantel for treatment.
Isolation Requirements
Isolate from other species during quarantine.
Food Training Needed
No
Acclimation Notes
Acclimate slowly to avoid shock.
Common Qt Issues
Ich, velvet, and other external parasites.
Best Practice Summary
Maintain stable water parameters and monitor closely for signs of illness.

General

Quarantine Difficulty
Moderate

Common Names

  • Prehistoric Dragon Fish (en)