Violet Goby (Dragon Goby) (Gobioides broussonnetii) is an advanced-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 72-82°F. A long, eel-like goby sold young in freshwater but best in brackish water as it grows. It is gentle, has poor eyesight and is slow at feeding time, and it sifts sand for food, so choose soft sand and calm tankmates.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Gobioides broussonnetii |
|---|---|
| Family | Gobiidae |
| Origin | Estuaries of the western Atlantic, Americas |
| Adult size | 12-20 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 7.5-8.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful but a poor competitor |
| Social behavior | Solitary or small groups in a large tank |
| Swim level | Bottom |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
| Diet | Carnivore: sinking pellets, frozen foods, bloodworms, brine shrimp |
| Typical lifespan | 5-10 years |
Quick tips
- Use fine sand and brackish water.
- Target-feed sinking foods so faster fish do not starve it.
- Plan for a long tank; adults get much bigger than juveniles.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi