A white body flushed with violet at the tail, a lemon-yellow head and a purple stripe down the face. More refined than the common firefish and every bit as prone to leaping out of an open tank.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseModerate
An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment3โ6 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Parasites
๐ Care guide
The Purple Firefish or decorated dartfish (Nemateleotris decora) is an Indo-Pacific dartfish reaching about 7 to 9 cm. It has a pale grey-white body with magenta and purple accents through the fins and tail, a yellow head and a violet stripe across the snout, plus the tall first dorsal spine the group is known for. It hovers above the substrate and shoots into a rock hole at any disturbance. A 100 litre or larger reef tank at 24-27C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4 suits it well, and a fully sealed lid is essential because dartfish jumping is the single most common cause of loss. Feed frequent small meals of mysis, enriched brine, copepods and fine pellets. It is peaceful, reef safe and shy, so it should not be housed with aggressive damsels or large wrasses that keep it hidden and away from food. Keep one alone or a bonded pair introduced together; unpaired individuals of this species will fight.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Purple Firefish?
Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.
How much maintenance does a Purple Firefish need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Purple Firefish need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Purple Firefish a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Purple Firefish live?
3โ6 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Purple Firefish?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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