Species profile
Violet Goby
Gobioides broussonnetii
Peaceful
Hard care
450 L minimum aquarium
35–55 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
True G. broussonnetii can exceed 50 cm and is a brackish specialist.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
7.5–8.5
GH
12–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Tiny food
Bioload factor
3
Peaceful toward most tankmates but can be territorial with its own kind; slow feeding makes boisterous companions unsuitable.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
450 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Gobioides broussonnetii
Alternative names
Dragon Goby, Dragon Fish, Violet Dragon Goby
Native range
Atlantic coasts and estuaries of the Americas; true G. broussonnetii is distinct from Pacific G. peruanus.
Natural habitat
Muddy estuaries and brackish lower rivers. Provide fine sand/mud-like substrate, long floor space, caves and stable marine-salt brackish conditions.
Diet & feeding
Detritus, algae and tiny invertebrates; use fine plant-rich foods and small frozen foods, often target-fed so faster fish do not starve it.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is poorly documented.
Breeding
Not routinely bred in home aquaria.