Newly hatched larvae are washed to the sea by heavy flows brought on by rains and mature there before returning to the streams.

The combination of strong currents and direct sunlight creates a biofilm, this is where the ideal habitat for the lipstick goby is found[3] Lipstick gobies are omnivorous, preferring to graze on algae, microorganisms, and detritus that forms on rocks in their natural habitat.

When kept in a personal aquarium, it is essential that lipstick gobs are fed a diet of mostly algae or plant material, high protein foods such as blood worms or brine shrimp should also be offered occasionally.

A densely planted or decorated tank with areas for the lipstick goby and other aquarium inhabitants to hide and form their own territories will ensure aggression stays to a minimum.

[7] In home aquariums, Lipstick gobies are most likely to breed when the water quality is pristine and well oxygenated with a high flow rate.