Description
⚡ Discover the Empire Gudgeon: Dazzling Color Meets Hardy Character!
Why choose between color and hardiness when you can have both? The Empire Gudgeon is a stunning Australian native that packs a massive visual punch without the fussy demands. Watch mature males flash their incredible crimson bodies and iridescent blue fins to command attention and become the undeniable centerpiece of your community tank.
Ideal for beginners and experts alike, these peaceful yet full-of-personality fish are active swimmers that bring dynamic energy and a splash of outback brilliance to any setup.
HIGHLIGHTS:
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Breathtaking Color: Males develop an intense, fiery red body with stunning electric blue accents on their dorsal and anal fins.
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Remarkably Hardy: Tolerant of a wide range of water parameters, making them an excellent choice for novice aquarists.
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Peaceful & Engaging: A peaceful community fish that displays fascinating territorial dances and social behaviors.
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Easy to Feed: Readily accepts a wide variety of foods, from high-quality flakes to frozen treats.
FISH CARE & REQUIREMENTS:
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Scientific Name: Hypseleotris compressa
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Common Name: Empire Gudgeon, Empire Fish, Australian Empire Gudgeon
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Origin: Northern Australia, Papua New Guinea
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Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum for a pair; 30+ gallons for a small group.
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Temperament: Peaceful and suitable for community tanks. Males may show minor territorial displays towards each other but are rarely harmful.
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Water Parameters: Very adaptable. Prefers slightly alkaline water but is highly tolerant. pH: 6.5-7.8, Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C).
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Diet: Omnivorous. Thrives on quality flake or pellet food. Loves frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
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Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7-8 cm)
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Tank Setup: Prefers a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas. Appreciates driftwood and rock structures.
WHAT YOU GET: One (1) live Empire Gudgeon (Hypseleotris compressa). You will receive an unsexed juvenile. Please note: While juveniles are less colorful, males will develop their spectacular red and blue breeding coloration as they mature (typically between 4-6 months).
FAQ & KEEPING TIPS
How can I tell males from females?
Males are the showstoppers! They develop the deep red body and vivid blue fin markings. Females are still attractive but remain more silvery-brown or golden with translucent fins. They are also typically smaller and rounder when full of eggs.
Can I keep more than one?
Absolutely! They do well in pairs or small groups. In larger tanks, keeping multiple females per male is ideal to distribute any amorous attention. You'll be rewarded with seeing their natural social interactions.
What are good tank mates?
Their peaceful nature makes them excellent residents in a community tank with other similar-sized, non-aggressive fish like rainbowfish, tetras, danios, Corydoras catfish, and other peaceful community species.
How do I bring out their best color?
A high-quality varied diet rich in carotenoids (from foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp) will enhance their red coloration. Stable, clean water and a low-stress environment also encourage them to display their most vibrant hues.
🏡 CREATE A SLICE OF AUSTRALIA!
Recreate a natural biotope with driftwood, dense planting, and a sandy substrate. The Empire Gudgeon's brilliant colors will pop against a natural background, creating a breathtaking and serene aquatic display.
🔒 LIVE ARRIVAL GUARANTEED: The health of your fish is our top priority. We pack with exceptional care using breather bags, insulated boxes, and heat or cold packs as needed. Please be prepared to receive and acclimate your fish immediately. Review our live arrival policy for details.
Ready for a hardy fish that looks like it isn't? Add the stunning Empire Gudgeon to your cart today!
