Source: Wikimedia Commons
Firefish
BeginnerNemateleotris magnifica
Small goby with a beautiful white-to-orange-red gradient. Named for the flag-like elongated first dorsal fin. Shy but calmer in pairs. Ideal for reef tanks.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
24〜27℃
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
6-8cm
Diet
Omnivore (frozen plankton foods, flakes)
About
The firefish goby (Nemateleotris magnifica) is a small dartfish of the family Microdesmidae, native to coral reef margins throughout the Indian and Pacific Oceans at depths of 6–70 m. Its striking gradient coloration — transitioning from white and yellow at the head to vivid orange-red toward the tail — combined with its tall, streaming first dorsal fin, gives it an elegant, flame-like appearance. Naturally shy, it retreats rapidly into rock crevices or sand burrows when startled, making a tight-fitting lid essential to prevent jumping. Pairs cohabit peacefully; keeping two together often reduces individual stress. Prefers gentle water flow and thrives in a stable, well-maintained 45-litre or larger aquarium.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans (depth 6–70 m)
Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
6-8cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Diet
Omnivore (frozen plankton foods, flakes)
Care Guide
Tank Size
45cm+. Tight-fitting lid essential (jumper)
Water
Care Specifications
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Water Temp.
- 22–26℃
- Specific Gravity
- 1.02–1.025
- Salinity
- 33–35 ppt
- Min. Tank
- 76 L
PeacefulReef safe
Sources: LiveAquaria
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / 環境省 特定動物リスト / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Firefish Listings
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