Common name: Purple firefish

General information

The Elegant Firefish, Nemateleotris decora, is a small, colorful species of dartfish known for its vibrant hues and peaceful demeanor. It is a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and relatively easy care requirements. This species is characterized by a purple face, yellow to white body, and red to orange fins, with a long, flowing dorsal fin that is often held erect.

Native to the Western Pacific, the Elegant Firefish is typically found in sandy areas near reefs where it can dart into burrows for safety. In the aquarium trade, it is appreciated not only for its beauty but also for its interesting behavior.

Care

Elegant Firefish require an aquarium with plenty of live rock and a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat. They are known to jump, so a tight-fitting lid or screen is essential to prevent escape. These fish are generally peaceful but can be territorial with their own kind, so it's best to keep them singly or in mated pairs.

A varied diet of meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood is recommended. They are not aggressive feeders, so care should be taken to ensure they receive enough food when housed with more boisterous species.

Reproduction

In the wild, Elegant Firefish form monogamous pairs and spawn within their burrows. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. While breeding them in captivity is possible, it requires a dedicated setup to successfully raise the larvae.

Habitat

Elegant Firefish are found in the Western Pacific, from the Maldives to Samoa, and north to the Ryukyu Islands. They inhabit depths from 6 to 70 meters, often in areas with strong currents which bring a steady supply of plankton for them to feed on.