What size tank does a Bumblebee Goby need?

Bumblebee Goby needs a minimum of 5 gallons, with 8 gallons recommended. They are bottom swimmers.

Is Bumblebee Goby good for beginners?

Bumblebee Goby is rated "intermediate" difficulty (2/5). Great for beginners.

What fish are compatible with Bumblebee Goby?

Bumblebee Goby is peaceful. Compatible tank mates include other peaceful fish with similar water parameters (pH 7-8.5, temp 75-82°F).

Bumblebee Goby

Brachygobius doriae

Family: Gobiidae • Origin: Various

Bumblebee Goby (Brachygobius doriae) is a peaceful other reaching 1.5 inches. Can be kept singly. Minimum tank: 5 gallons.

Min Tank

5 gal

Max Size

1.5"

Temperature

75-82°F

7-8.5

Lifespan

2 years

School Size

Solo OK

Swim Level

bottom

Hardness

5-15 dGH

peacefulintermediatecarnivore

Is Bumblebee Goby Right for Your Tank?

Bumblebee Goby is an excellent choice for beginners — rated "intermediate" difficulty (2/5). They're hardy, forgiving of minor water parameter fluctuations, and generally easy to feed. At just 5 gallons minimum, they work well in nano tanks and smaller setups.

With a peaceful temperament, Bumblebee Goby makes a great community fish. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species of similar size. Expected lifespan: 2 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Bumblebee Goby

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Relying on a heater without a thermometer

Bumblebee Goby needs 75–82°F. Heaters malfunction or drift over time — always use a separate thermometer to verify. Temperature swings of even 3–4°F can trigger stress and disease, particularly ich.

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Putting them in a tank under 5 gallons

While 5 gallons is the minimum, nano tanks require more frequent water changes and leave less room for error. A slightly larger tank (8 gal) is much more forgiving.

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Skipping the quarantine period

Even healthy-looking fish can carry parasites or disease. Quarantine new Bumblebee Goby for 2–4 weeks in a separate tank before adding to your main aquarium.