The Leavelli Goby (Rhinogobius leavelli) is a small, freshwater goby species native to East Asia, primarily found in fast-flowing streams and rivers. Here’s some key information about it:
General Description
• Size: Typically grows to about 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in length, making it a small and manageable fish.
• Body: It has an elongated, slender body with a slightly flattened ventral side.
• Coloration: Features attractive patterns with translucent or pale colors, often with speckled or blotchy markings in shades of brown, gray, or olive.
• Fins: Males often have more vibrant colors, especially during breeding, and can develop slightly more extended fins.
Habitat
• Native Range: Found in streams across China, Taiwan, and Korea, thriving in cool, oxygen-rich waters.
• Preferred Environment:
• Strong, steady water currents.
• Rocky or gravel substrate, which they use for burrowing and foraging.
• Shaded areas with clean water.
Behavior
• Temperament: Peaceful but can be territorial toward conspecifics or other bottom dwellers in confined spaces.
• Activity: Primarily bottom-dwelling, spending time resting on rocks or substrate.
• Feeding: Omnivorous but leans toward carnivorous preferences, feeding on:
• Small aquatic invertebrates.
• Insect larvae.
• Biofilm and algae present on rocks.
Aquarium Care
• Tank Size: A minimum of 20–30 gallons for a small group.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C) – they prefer cooler water.
• pH: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
• Hardness: 5–12 dGH.
• Flow: High water flow with strong filtration to mimic their natural stream habitat.
• Tank Setup:
• Use rocks, driftwood, and gravel to create hiding spots and burrows.
• Strong aeration is essential to ensure well-oxygenated water.
• Regular water changes to maintain pristine water quality.
Breeding
• Rhinogobius species exhibit interesting breeding behavior:
• Males dig and guard burrows to attract females.
• Eggs are deposited in a protected area, such as under rocks or crevices.
• Males guard the eggs until they hatch.
Compatibility
• Best kept with similarly peaceful fish, like other small gobies, hillstream loaches, or danios.
• Avoid aggressive or overly large fish.
Special Considerations
• Sensitive to poor water quality; regular maintenance and monitoring are essential.
• Cool water and high flow are non-negotiable for their health.
If you’re considering adding Rhinogobius leavelli to your tank, ensure a stream-like environment with lots of natural flow and excellent oxygenation. It’s a fascinating and rewarding species for aquarists who enjoy creating biotope-style tanks.
