Violet Gobies

Question
Hi Will,
I have a question about the upkeep of Violet Gobies AKA Dragon Fish.

I've had one for a few years now in a brackish water tank (1 cup of marine salt per 5gal) and he lives with a green spotted puffer. He's doing okay, but he could be better. The Green spotted puffer (after living in peace for about 8 months or so) has decided to take big chunks out of the Dragon's tailfin.

So I'll have to separate them soon.

My question is. Do Violet Gobies -have- to be in brackish water no matter what? I know they can survive in freshwater but will they truly thrive throughout their lifespan?

What I am confused about is when I see videos on youtube of large and healthy dragon fish living with freshwater species like pleocstomus and frogs! Like this one -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6itAiI8fu6A

I would like to take the best care possible of my dragon fish and I was wondering if you had any tips or advice, especially about the freshwater aspect.

Thank you so much!
Therese

Answer
Therese,  No, that is the biggest problem with keeping them in freshwater it shortens their life span. It has problems maintaining its salt levels. They are born in marshes and move out to deeper waters of the marshes around the bay's. Unfortunately that is the problem with puffs is they tend to become more aggressive as they grow. Your dragon can be found in all types of water's from fresh to salt. They tend to do well in all. Before you separate them you can get what they call a ghost knife tube or a clear piece of 2 inch plastic tubing. They tend to go into things like that and hide and you can still see him or caves are great. Some more plants on the bottom to hide in may help. Your gobie's definitely brackish....I eventually moved them into my salt tank with my bumble bee's. I am so sorry it took us so long to get back to you. I hope your dragon is o.k.. Keep me updated or any other question's please ask, Good Luck, Tina