[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cyprinids – Gudgeon (Gobio gobi)

The Gudgeon is predominantly a bottom-dwelling species that has traditionally been regarded as a pondfish by (mostly) European hobbyists. However, as coldwater aquarium keeping has expanded, the species has gained greater popularity. One of the Gudgeon’s distinguishing features is the pair of barbels either side of its mouth.

Subfamily

• Gobioninae

Distribution

• Europe, except most of Italy, northern Finland, Sweden, and the Adriatic coast. Spanish, Scottish, and Northern Irish populations are introduced rather than native.

Size

• Up to 8in (20cm), but usually smaller.

Behavior

• Peaceful bottom dweller that will learn to take food from the surface. Diet: Most foods accepted, particularly sinking formulations and livefoods.

Aquarium

• Wei I -filtered, well-oxygenated water essential (this species is sensitive to pollution). Substratum should be fine- grained and shelters shouid be provided. Neutral to slightly alkaline, medium-hard water is preferred Temperature range: 50-68 F (10-20 C).

Breeding

• Infrequent in aquaria. Adhesive eggs laid on substratum in flowing water. Hatching takes 10-30 days, depending on temperature.