Purple Spot Gudgeon

About the Purple Spot Gudgeon

The Purple Spot Gudgeon is a beautiful Australian native freshwater fish, admired for its striking cream to olive body covered in distinctive iridescent purple, blue, and black spots. Native to rivers, creeks, and billabongs throughout northern and eastern Australia as well as southern New Guinea, this fascinating species is well known for its inquisitive personality and unique behaviour.

Purple Spot Gudgeons are ambush predators that enjoy aquariums with driftwood, rocks, caves, and dense vegetation where they can establish territories. While generally peaceful with similarly sized fish, they may prey on very small fish and shrimp that fit into their mouths. They are best kept with Australian native species or peaceful tropical fish of a comparable size.

A varied diet of quality sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, blackworms, brine shrimp, insects, and live foods will help maintain their health and vibrant colouration. Their hardy nature and engaging behaviour make them an excellent choice for aquarists wanting to keep Australian native fish.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Mogurnda adspersa

Common Name

Purple Spot Gudgeon

Origin

Australia and southern New Guinea

Adult Size

12–15 cm

Temperament

Peaceful but territorial

Diet

Carnivore

Minimum Tank Size

120 Litres

Temperature

20–28°C

pH

6.5–8.0

Water Hardness

5–20 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner to Intermediate

Lifespan

6–10 Years

Suitable For

Australian native aquariums and larger peaceful community tanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Purple Spot Gudgeons aggressive?

They are generally peaceful but can become territorial, particularly during breeding or when defending their favourite hiding places.

What do Purple Spot Gudgeons eat?

They enjoy quality sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms, insects, and other meaty foods.

Can Purple Spot Gudgeons live with shrimp?

Large shrimp may coexist, but smaller shrimp and shrimplets are likely to become food.

Can Purple Spot Gudgeons be kept together?

Yes. In larger aquariums with plenty of hiding places, multiple individuals can be kept successfully, although occasional territorial disputes may occur.

Are Purple Spot Gudgeons suitable for planted aquariums?

Yes. They appreciate planted aquariums with driftwood, rocks, and caves that provide shelter and territory.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them with very small fish

Purple Spot Gudgeons are opportunistic predators and may consume fish small enough to fit in their mouths.

Not providing enough hiding places

Caves, driftwood, and rockwork help reduce stress and territorial behaviour.

Feeding only dry foods

A varied diet including frozen and live foods promotes excellent health and vibrant colours.

Poor water quality

Regular water changes and stable water parameters are essential for this long-lived native species.

Overcrowding

Provide ample territory and swimming space, especially when keeping multiple gudgeons.