
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tateurndina ocellicauda
A small gudgeon with beautiful peacock-like blue dot pattern. Peaceful, breeding enjoyable.
The peacock gudgeon (Tateurndina ocellicauda) is a small eleotrid fish native to clear streams and wetlands of eastern Papua New Guinea. Growing to 5–7 cm, it is one of the most beautiful gudgeons: a vivid blue-cyan body with red and orange vertical banding, a flag-like extended dorsal fin, and a prominent yellow-rimmed black eyespot at the tail base that mimics an eye to deter predators — collectively evoking the splendor of a peacock's plumage. Primarily bottom-oriented but also swimming in mid-water, peacock gudgeons are gentle enough for community tanks. Breeding pairs exhibit cave-spawning behavior, depositing eggs in hollow driftwood or tubes, with the male guarding eggs and early fry. Diet is predominantly carnivorous — frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small live foods deliver the best coloration; they can be trained to accept quality prepared foods. Fine substrate and ample hiding places replicate their natural habitat.
The Peacock Gudgeon lives 3-5 years.
The Peacock Gudgeon grows to 5-7cm.
The ideal temperature for the Peacock Gudgeon is 24〜28℃.
Water conditions of pH 6.5–7.5 at 24–28°C are appropriate.
Origin
clear streams and wetlands of eastern Papua New Guinea
Lifespan
3-5 years
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Size
5-7cm
Temperature
24〜28℃
Frozen food, Pellets
Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.5)
Maintain 24-28°C. Keep the water slightly acidic to neutral and avoid sudden changes to maintain stable conditions.
It prefers fine substrate and a layout rich in shelters such as rockwork and driftwood. Bottom-dwelling, but it also swims mid-water.
Strongly carnivorous, favouring frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp and small live foods. It will take dry food once trained, but meaty foods boost colour.
A pair will show breeding behaviour. It is a cave spawner, laying in holes in driftwood, and the male guards the eggs and fry.
Peaceful, compatible with planted tanks
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Peacock Gudgeon is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Peacock Gudgeon is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Peacock Gudgeon typically reaches 5-7cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Peacock Gudgeon feeds on: Frozen food, Pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Peacock Gudgeon varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 15, 2026