宿务瓢眼鰕虎鱼

Overview

A cream-yellow front half, dark central blotch, and vivid orange-red rear distinguish male Sicyopus cebuensis. This poorly recorded Philippine stream goby takes small animal foods in captivity. Its association with biofilm-covered rocks does not make it a dependable algae grazer.

Distribution & habitat

The original specimens were a single adult pair from Uling brook in the upper Naga drainage on Cebu. Other populations may exist, but records are inadequate. Known habitat appears to consist of pristine headwater streams.

The genus is associated with short tropical island streams, often above waterfalls. Clear, oxygen-rich water runs over bedrock and scattered boulders, allowing substantial biofilm growth even where submerged plants are sparse.

Aquarium setup

Use a mature, stable aquarium with sand or gravel and rounded stones arranged into shelters and visual barriers. Seasoned wood is optional; fresh tannin-rich pieces can darken the water and reduce illumination. A closely fitted cover is essential because these gobies climb glass and jump.

Provide effective filtration, aeration, and circulation without eliminating every sheltered area. Suggested turnover is roughly 10–15 aquarium volumes hourly, or about 5–10 where oxygenation is strong. Replace 30–50% of the water each week. Increase surface movement during warmer conditions.

Diet & feeding

Captive fish accept small live or frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and water fleas while apparently ignoring biofilm. This suggests a specialized predatory diet, although it remains an inference. Dry food may be rejected completely. Do not depend on algae growth for nourishment or assume small live invertebrates are safe companions.

Behaviour & compatibility

Peaceful open-water fishes with matching environmental needs are preferable to aggressive feeders, large fishes, or territorial cichlids. Males defend some space, so mixed-species groups or several males need additional room and cover. A male with at least two females is a suggested starting group; females tend to associate loosely.

Sexual dimorphism

Males have stronger colors and longer unpaired fins, particularly the first dorsal. Dominant individuals develop a dark mark below the eye and bright orange-red coloration behind the midbody blotch. Females are plainer and lack the fin extensions.

Breeding

Courtship and spawning have been observed within the genus, but raising young through the entire life cycle is difficult. Adults reproduce in streams; newly hatched larvae drift downstream, develop in marine water, and later return inland. Aquarium spawning alone therefore does not provide a freshwater rearing method.

Notes

This is not a routine commercial aquarium species, though private collectors have kept it. Male coloration, dark fin edges, and scale distribution help identify it. Locally bare regions of the body should not be mistaken for a completely scaleless fish.