Aquarium dragon fish, known for their unique appearance and interesting behavior, are a popular choice among fishkeeping enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know to successfully care for these fascinating creatures, from their natural habitat and behavior to their diet and tank setup.

Introduction to Aquarium Dragon Fish

Aquarium dragon fish, also referred to as dragon gobies, eel gobies, Peruvian gobies, or violet gobies, belong to the Gobioides family. These captivating fish are native to the brackish and freshwater environments of South and Central America. The largest member of this family, Gobioides broussonnettii, can grow up to 60 cm (24 inches) long, while other species usually reach half that size.

These ancient-looking fish have a peaceful nature and can live for several years, making them a unique and fascinating addition to a freshwater aquarium.

Aquarium Dragon Fish Habitat and Behavior

In the wild, aquarium dragon fish inhabit brackish waters, which are found where rivers meet the sea. These environments have a mix of freshwater and saltwater, providing the ideal conditions for these hardy fish. Dragon fish require clean water and stable temperatures to thrive.

Aquarium Size and Setup

Due to their potential size and preference for brackish water, dragon fish require a spacious aquarium with a minimum capacity of 30 gallons. Each additional dragon fish will need at least 25 gallons of space. It’s best to choose a long aquarium rather than a tall one, as these fish need ample room to swim comfortably.

Aragonite substrate is recommended for aquarium dragon fish, as it helps maintain the water’s pH levels. Invest in a high-quality heater and filter to ensure stable temperatures and clean water. Perform weekly water changes of 10-15% to keep your dragon fish healthy and happy.

Water Parameters

Aquarium dragon fish prefer water temperatures around 26.5°C (80°F). While they can tolerate short-term deviations, prolonged exposure to unsuitable conditions increases the risk of opportunistic diseases such as ich or fin rot. Maintain a pH level between 7.5 and 8, as dragon fish thrive in hard water.

Tank Mates for Aquarium Dragon Fish

Despite their intimidating appearance, aquarium dragon fish are peaceful creatures that can easily be bullied by more aggressive tank mates. Their small eyes and poor eyesight make it difficult for them to compete for food. Dragon fish may occasionally nip at smaller fish, but they generally avoid conflict.

Suitable tank mates for dragon fish include medium-sized brackish water fish like black sailfin mollies and archer fish. Angelfish, silver dollars, swordtails, and corydoras are also good companions. In cooler water aquariums, goldfish make suitable tank mates.

If you plan to breed aquarium dragon fish, a species-specific tank with a ratio of three females to one male is recommended. Males become aggressive and guard the eggs after spawning, so it’s best to separate the females once spawning occurs.

Feeding Your Aquarium Dragon Fish

Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and appearance of your aquarium dragon fish. In the wild, they are opportunistic carnivores and scavengers. To replicate their natural diet, provide them with a high-protein diet consisting of frozen fish food, live food such as ghost shrimp and black worms, and live or frozen brine shrimp.

It’s not uncommon for new dragon fish owners to worry about their fish not eating. These shy creatures may take a few days to acclimate to their new environment before they start eating regularly. Monitor them closely and avoid overfeeding until they feel comfortable enough to eat.

Aquarium dragon fish fry can consume algae water (green water) and rotifers until they are large enough to eat Artemia nauplii after about a month.

Health and Disease Prevention

Maintaining a clean and well-aerated environment is crucial for preventing stress-related diseases in aquarium dragon fish. Monitor water parameters closely and perform regular maintenance to prevent the development of diseases such as ich and fin rot.

If your dragon fish show signs of illness, consult a veterinarian or fishkeeping expert for advice on appropriate treatment options.

Breeding Aquarium Dragon Fish

Breeding aquarium dragon fish can be a rewarding experience, but it requires patience and careful planning. Set up a separate breeding tank with optimal water parameters and introduce the male and females to the tank. The male will become aggressive and guard the eggs once spawning occurs, so it’s essential to remove the females after spawning.

Dragon fish fry should be fed algae water and rotifers until they are large enough to consume Artemia nauplii. As they grow, gradually introduce them to the same diet as the adult fish.

Preparing for Breeding

Breeding dragon fish requires a lot of preparation and specific conditions.

Selecting the Fish

Healthy and mature fish are more likely to breed. Generally, Arowanas reach sexual maturity around 3-4 years of age. Make sure your fish are healthy and not stressed.

Creating the Right Environment

Create an environment similar to their natural habitat. This could include having a large, spacious tank with plenty of places for the fish to hide. The water conditions should mimic those found in their native habitat.

Breeding Process

Spawning

In the wild, dragon fish spawn in the rainy season. Thus, simulating the rainy season by slightly lowering the water temperature and increasing water flow can trigger spawning. The male fish carries the eggs in its mouth until they hatch, a process known as mouthbrooding.

Rearing the Fry

Once the eggs hatch, the young fish or fry continue to be protected in the male’s mouth for a short period. After that, they can be moved to a separate rearing tank for safety and feeding.

Challenges and Considerations

Breeding dragon fish is not for the faint-hearted. It requires patience, time, and financial investment. It’s important to remember that these fish are listed as endangered in the wild and are subject to trade restrictions under CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). Therefore, any attempts at breeding should be done ethically and responsibly.

The Appeal of Aquarium Dragon Fish

Aquarium dragon fish are an ancient species that has remained largely unchanged since their prehistoric ancestors. Their elongated, lavender-colored bodies are intriguing to watch, and their ability to thrive in hard water makes them a suitable choice for those with high pH tap water.

With proper care and a suitable environment, you can enjoy the unique beauty of aquarium dragon fish for many years.

Additional Information

When setting up your aquarium, consider adding hiding spots and decorations that cater to the dragon fish’s natural habitat. This will help them feel more at ease in their new environment and encourage natural behavior.

Conclusion

Successfully caring for an aquarium dragon fish requires dedication to maintaining their unique habitat and providing the proper diet. By following the guidelines outlined in this care guide, you can ensure your dragon fish will thrive in your aquarium. These fascinating creatures are sure to captivate both novice and experienced fishkeepers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions