Red Lipstick Goby - Sicyopus exallisquamulus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Red Lipstick Gobies are a distinctive species within the goby family, known for their unique ecological adaptations and intriguing appearance. In the aquarium hobby, these Gobies are valued not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for their fascinating behaviour and adaptability. As a relatively less common species in the aquarium trade, the Red Lipstick Goby offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to observe and care for a species that exhibits both the resilience and the complexity of freshwater gobies.
Red Lipstick Gobies tend to exhibit a loosely territorial behaviour, primarily during their breeding phase. Therefore, it is feasible to maintain several of these gobies together, provided that ample space and suitable sustenance are available. Although males do not inherently display gregarious tendencies, females tend to congregate in loose groups. Consequently, it is advisable to acquire a minimum of one male and two or more females when considering a purchase. Additionally, it is noteworthy that males exhibit the ability to distinguish between females of different species.
These gobies coexist harmoniously with various small, peaceful tankmates, including Rasboras, Tetras, Hillstream Loaches, and other diminutive species. Their modest size permits compatibility with most tranquil fish species and larger invertebrates, which are beyond the realm of prey. Nevertheless, it is prudent to exercise caution when introducing peaceful bottom-dwelling fish to the aquarium, especially in smaller tanks. The Red Lipstick Goby may occasionally assert territorial behaviour, potentially intimidating other passive, slow-moving bottom-dwellers when spatial constraints arise.
To maintain Red Lipstick Gobies successfully in an aquarium setting, certain pivotal conditions must be met. A tank featuring robust water flow and consistently pristine, transparent water is imperative, particularly when housing these gobies in warmer water conditions. These fish demonstrate sensitivity to fluctuations in water quality, emphasizing the importance of routine aquarium maintenance. Remarkably, Red Lipstick Gobies do not threaten aquarium plants; in fact, species such as Anubias are highly compatible and complementary when cohabitating with these Gobies.
Red Lipstick Gobies exhibit a distinct and refined appearance that sets it apart in the aquatic world. Typically characterized by a slender and elongated body, this species displays a subtle yet intriguing colour palette. These fish exhibit silvery body hues complemented by vibrant reddish-orange pigmentation on their lips, face and posterior dorsal regions. While females may not display the same level of chromatic intensity, they remain notably dynamic and captivating in their behaviour.
Red Lipstick Goby Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
The Red Lipstick Goby exhibits notable sexual dimorphism and can be differentiated by distinct physical characteristics. Typically, males are more vibrantly coloured and display more pronounced finnage compared to their female counterparts. The males often have brighter and more elaborate patterns on their bodies, which are especially evident during breeding periods as a display to attract females.
In contrast, females generally have a more subdued colour palette and lack the ornate finnage seen in males. They are often larger in size and have a fuller body shape, particularly when gravid. Additionally, the males of Red Lipstick Gobies may exhibit specific morphological features adapted for breeding, such as modified fins or structures.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Sicyopus exallisquamulus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2006 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Gobiiformes |
| Family | Gobiidae |
| Genus | Sicyopus |
| Origins | Indonesia |
| Max Size | 5.5 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | 3 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 2 - 10 |
| TDS | 36 - 215 |
| ℉ | 71 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
Red Lipstick Gobies, a species native to Halmahera Island in the Maluku Archipelago of Indonesia, thrive in specific freshwater environments. Their habitats are characterized by fast-flowing, clear streams with a high gradient, often featuring substrates composed of rocks and boulders.
While these areas are commonly lined with riparian vegetation and submerged leaf litter, aquatic plants are generally absent. A key aspect of their ideal habitats is the presence of crystal-clear, well-oxygenated water. This condition, combined with the tropical sunlight, promotes the growth of a rich biofilm that covers submerged surfaces.
Breeding
Successful spawning of the Red Lipstick Goby in captivity has been documented, yet raising the fry to maturity presents significant challenges due to its intricate larval development stages. In their natural lifecycle, the adults spawn in freshwater environments, and upon hatching, the fry are swiftly carried downstream to marine environments. This transition from freshwater to saltwater is critical for their early development and feeding.
As the fry mature, they embark on a remarkable migratory journey back to freshwater streams, often traversing vast distances and even relocating to different islands from their birthplace. It is during this phase that they transition into young adults, gradually approaching sexual maturity and developing the full adult colouration characteristic of the species.
This complex life cycle, encompassing shifts between freshwater and marine ecosystems, poses a considerable challenge in replicating the necessary conditions in an aquarium setting for successfully rearing Red Lipstick Goby fry.
Diet & Feeding
Red Lipstick Gobies primarily exhibit an omnivorous diet that is heavily slanted towards consuming algae and biofilm in their natural habitat. In the wild, these gobies graze on the biofilm that develops on rocks and other submerged surfaces in fast-flowing streams. This biofilm consists of a mix of algae, microorganisms, and detritus.
In an aquarium setting, replicating this diet is crucial for their health and well-being. They should be fed various high-quality algae-based foods, such as algae wafers and spirulina, which can be supplemented with occasional offerings of live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
These additional protein sources help in providing a balanced diet. It's important to note that Red Lipstick Gobies have specific feeding habits; they tend to graze throughout the day, so providing a constant source of appropriate food in the tank is beneficial. Their diet plays a key role in maintaining their vibrant colouration and overall health, making it essential for aquarists to provide a diet that closely mimics their natural food sources.
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