Common Name: Firefish; Fire Goby; Fire Dartfish
Scientific Name: Nemateleotris magnifica

Minimum Aquarium Size: 10 Gallons
Maximum Size: 3"
Temperature: 72F-78F
pH: 8.1-8.4
Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
Lifespan: 15 years
Temperment: Peaceful
Reef Compatable: Yes
Origin: Indo-Pacific; Coral Sea

Notes: The Firefish Goby is also known as the Firefish, Fire Goby, Magnificent Dartfish, or Fire Dartfish. Its head is yellow, the anterior portion of the body is white, and the posterior portion a pinkish to orangish red. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are highlighted in black. In the wild, Firefish Gobies are usually found in groups hovering over the reef, harvesting planktonic food that drifts by in the current. Each Firefish Goby will have a "bolt-hole," which it quickly ducks into when threatened.

Firefish Goby are a sweet-tempered fish with lots of personality, making them one of the more popular fish in the marine hobby. Because of their small size, they make a great addition to the smaller reef system. There are two, closely-related fish, the Flame (Purple) Firefish, N. decora and the rarely seen N. helfrichi.

They will try to jump out of the tank, especially if stressed, so the Firefish Goby should be housed in a 10 gallon or larger tank with a lid. Hobbyists who use a halide system with an open top should construct a Plexiglas "edge" around the trim, at least 10" tall. It is generally not aggressive towards other fish except those of its own species; a mated pair can live peacefully. The Firefish Goby prefers moderate lighting conditions, several hiding places to duck into when threatened, and a moderate current passing over the reef.

Along with algae and zooplankton growing in the tank, the diet of the Firefish Goby should consist of finely chopped small crustaceans, vitamin-enriched brine fish (live or frozen), mysid shrimp, and prepared foods.

Information provided by LiveAquaria.com