Peacock gudgeon Care Guide

The Peacock Gudgeon (Tateurndina ocellicauda) is a moderately popular choice for aquarists, boasting striking colors and social behavior. Below is a guide on how to care for this enchanting species.

Tank Setup

To ensure optimal living conditions, maintain a tank temperature between 23°C to 27°C. The pH level should be in the range of 6.5 to 7.5. The Peacock Gudgeon thrives in various tank habitats including surface, mid-tank, and bottom dwellers. A minimum of 6 individuals is recommended, as this fish tends to feel more secure and exhibit better behavior in groups. Allow for at least 2 liters of water per fish. Due to their moderately territorial nature, provide ample hiding spots and vegetation within the tank to minimize stress and aggression.

Feeding

The Peacock Gudgeon is an omnivore and requires a varied diet to thrive. High-quality flakes and pellets can form the base of their diet. Supplement these with proteins like bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, daphnia, micro worms, and frozen shrimp. Additionally, they enjoy vegetable matter, algae wafers, and the occasional feeder fish. Use color-enhancing food to maintain their vibrant hues. Offering freeze-dried foods and stick-on tablets can also enrich their feeding experience.

Social and Behavioral Characteristics

This species is mostly peaceful but displays highly territorial behavior, especially during breeding. While generally social, they may become slightly more aggressive in breeding scenarios. It is crucial to monitor interspecies dynamics to ensure harmonious cohabitation.

Breeding

Breeding Peacock Gudgeons is a moderately complex task due to their territorial nature. When breeding, a slight increase in aggression may be observed. Providing sufficient space and hiding areas for females will encourage successful spawning.

Maintenance and Affordability

Peacock Gudgeons require low maintenance, with regular water changes and tank care to maintain cleanliness and stability. Affordability is moderate, making them a viable option for hobbyists interested in diversifying their tank with a visually appealing species.

Conservation

The Peacock Gudgeon holds a status of "Least Concern" in terms of conservation, indicating that current population levels in their natural habitat are stable.