Australian Desert Goby
Australian Desert Goby (Chlamydogobius eremius) is one of the most extraordinary and unlikely aquarium fish available — a freshwater goby from the arid desert springs of central Australia, adapted to conditions that would kill virtually any other aquarium fish. Males develop vivid yellow to orange coloration with dark fin markings; females are more cryptically colored. The name eremius means 'of the desert.'
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Micro Pellets make an excellent staple. Supplement with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms and Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp 2–3 times per week. This species is highly adaptable in food acceptance — one of the least demanding gobies to feed.
Native to the mound springs and artesian water holes of the Lake Eyre basin in South Australia — permanent springs fed by the Great Artesian Basin in one of the most arid regions on Earth. These springs experience extreme temperature swings, high mineral content, and variable salinity. The fish has evolved to survive temperatures from near-freezing to over 40°C — one of the widest temperature tolerances of any aquarium fish.
Keep in pairs or small groups. Males are territorial but manageable in adequately sized setups with structure. Compatible with other hard-water species. An unheated aquarium is possible in most climates — this species does not require tropical temperatures.
A fascinating biogeographic oddity — a freshwater goby that evolved in Australian desert springs and developed extraordinary environmental tolerances unlike any other aquarium fish. For aquarists who appreciate unusual zoogeography alongside good looks, the Australian Desert Goby is a genuinely remarkable find.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Temperament | Territorial between males — peaceful with other species |
| Typical Adult Size | 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Pair or small group |
| Ideal Temp | 50–95°F (10–35°C) — extreme range; ideal 68–82°F |
| Ideal pH | 7.5–9.0 |
| Ideal GH | 10–25 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 6–15 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Baby Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Lake Eyre basin mound springs, South Australia |
| Notes | From Australian desert springs — one of the widest temperature tolerances of any aquarium fish (50–95°F). Hard alkaline water essential. Unheated aquarium possible. Males develop vivid yellow-orange breeding color. |
