Smalleye Gudgeon - (Prionobutis microps)

🐟 Smalleye Gudgeon – (Prionobutis microps) – Rare Brackish/Mangrove Oddball

The Smalleye Gudgeon (Prionobutis microps) is a rare and unusual gobioid fish found in mangrove estuaries and tidal river systems across Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. True to its name, it has noticeably small eyes, an adaptation for living in muddy, low-visibility waters. Its body is elongated with a mottled brown-and-tan camouflage pattern, perfect for blending into sandy or muddy substrates.

Because it is seldom seen in the aquarium trade, it is considered a collector’s oddball species, best suited for experienced aquarists with brackish or estuarine biotope setups.

🔎 Quick Facts – Smalleye Gudgeon (Prionobutis microps)

• 📛 Common Names: Smalleye Gudgeon
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Prionobutis microps
• 🌍 Origin: Coastal estuaries and mangroves of Southeast Asia & Northern Australia
• 🎨 Appearance: Elongated body with mottled brown/tan coloration; notably small eyes
• 📏 Max Size: ~4 inches (10 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Very rare in the aquarium hobby

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Peaceful but predatory toward very small fish and invertebrates
• 🪵 Bottom-dwelling; spends most of its time resting on the substrate
• 💡 Slow-moving and calm; thrives in low-light environments

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons
• 🌊 Brackish to slightly marine water conditions recommended
• 🪵 Fine sand or mud substrate with mangrove roots or driftwood
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters – Smalleye Gudgeon Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.2–8.2
• 💧 Salinity: Low-end brackish to marine (~1.005–1.015 SG)

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🦐 Frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp
• 🪱 Bloodworms, blackworms
• 🐟 Small pieces of fish or shrimp
• ❌ Avoid flake food; prefers meaty, sinking foods

📋 Smalleye Gudgeon Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Smalleye Gudgeon is a rare brackish-water species that thrives in mangrove or estuary setups, offering aquarists a fascinating and unusual oddball for specialized tanks.