Description
Native to the clear waters of Papua New Guinea, the Peacock Gudgeon is often mistaken for a goby due to its shape, but is actually a species all its own. These small, peaceful fish are ideal for community aquariums and bring both aesthetic beauty and playful interaction to any tank setup.
With their silvery blue body, scarlet red lateral spots, yellow-tinted fins, and the iconic peacock-like eyespot on the tail, these Peacock Cichlids truly live up to their name.
Species Profile
Scientific Name: Tateurndina ocellicauda
Common Name: Peacock Gudgeon
Origin: Papua New Guinea (often misattributed to Australia)
Max Size: ~6.5 cm (2.5 inches)
Lifespan: 4–5 years with proper care
Temperament: Peaceful, slightly territorial during breeding
Swimming Level: Mid to bottom
Tank Size: 40 liters (10 gallons) minimum for a pair
Diet & Feeding
Peacock Gudgeons are omnivorous, but known to be picky eaters. For optimal health and color vibrancy, feed them a variety of:
Live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
Frozen foods (especially during breeding)
High-quality micro pellets
Avoid flakes as they often go uneaten.
Care Guide
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22°C – 27°C (72°F – 80°F)
pH Range: 6.5 – 7.8 (can tolerate 5.8 – 9.0)
Water Hardness: 5–15 dGH
Tank Setup:
Plenty of hiding spots (caves, driftwood, plants)
Low current
Dim lighting enhances their coloration
Tankmates:
Tetras
Corydoras
Rasboras
Freshwater shrimp (larger species preferred)
Avoid fin-nippers and overly aggressive fish.
Breeding
Type: Egg-layer (cave spawner)
Maturity: 6–8 months
Sexing:
Males: Slightly larger, rounded forehead hump
Females: Black edge on fins + yellow belly patch when ready to spawn
They breed readily in the right conditions. Males guard the eggs inside caves or tubes, and fry can be raised on baby brine shrimp.
See more details on How to Care for Peacock Cichlids here.
Maintenance
Weekly water changes (25–30%)
Keep nitrate levels low
Ensure stable water temperature
Why Choose Peacock Gudgeons?
Peaceful & community-friendly
Colorful & active
Unique personalities – they recognize their owners!
Easy to breed for intermediate hobbyists
If you’re looking for a fish that’s beautiful, interactive, and low-maintenance, the Peacock Gudgeon is a fantastic choice. Though sometimes overlooked, this species offers both visual appeal and rewarding behavior, making it a standout addition to any freshwater setup.
Peacock Gudgeons Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many peacock gudgeons should be kept together?
You should keep 6 to 8 Peacock Gudgeons together to encourage natural behavior and reduce stress. These peaceful fish do well in a community aquarium with other non-aggressive species. While they don’t require a species-only tank, a calm environment helps them thrive.
Are peacock gudgeons peaceful?
Peacock Gudgeons are peaceful fish that thrive in community aquariums. They get along well with other non-aggressive, similarly sized species, making them a great choice for peaceful tank setups.
Are peacock gudgeons territorial?
Peacock Gudgeons can be slightly territorial, especially with their own kind during breeding. However, keeping them in groups of 6 or more helps reduce aggression, as they are naturally found in loose social groups in the wild.
