Firefish - Purple

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 litres)

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate:< 10 ppm

• Aquascape: Provide ample rockwork, caves, and crevices for hiding, along with open swimming areas

Purple Firefish thrive in established aquariums with stable water conditions and secure hiding spots where they can retreat if stressed.

Diet and Feeding

Purple Firefish are carnivorous and thrive on a varied diet:

• Frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood

• High-quality marine flakes or micro-pellets designed for carnivorous fish

• Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions

A varied diet supports vibrant coloration, activity, and overall health.

Temperament and Compatibility

Purple Firefish are peaceful, slow-moving, and generally non-aggressive. They can be kept singly or in pairs, and do well in small community aquariums.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Clownfish, gobies, blennies, small anthias, and other peaceful species

• Avoid: Large predatory or aggressive fish

Providing secure hiding spots encourages natural hovering and darting behaviors while reducing stress.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

Purple Firefish are reef safe and do not harm corals or sessile invertebrates, making them an excellent addition to reef aquariums.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 8 cm (3 inches)

• Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Natural Behavior: Peaceful, hovers above substrate, retreats into crevices when threatened

• Origin: Indo-Pacific

The Purple Firefish (Nemateleotris exquisita) is a peaceful, vividly colored, and active marine fish that adds elegance and movement to reef and community aquariums. With stable water conditions, a protein-rich diet, and secure hiding places, it thrives as a long-lived and visually striking member of the aquarium community.