Purple Firefish (Nemateleotris decora)
The Purple Firefish, Nemateleotris decora, is a graceful and colourful marine dartfish with a pale body, rich purple head markings and flowing fins edged with red, violet, orange and darker tones. Also known as the Elegant Firefish or Decorated Dartfish, this Indo-West Pacific species is a superb choice for peaceful reef aquariums. It is generally reef safe, modest in size and visually striking, but it needs calm tank mates, good cover and a secure lid because it is shy by nature and an accomplished jumper.
Common Name
Purple Firefish, Elegant Firefish, Decorated Dartfish, Purple Fire Goby, Purple Dartfish.
Scientific Name (Latin)
Nemateleotris decora
| Size | Temperament | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 4 cm (1.5 inches) | Shy, peaceful | Best with calm, non-aggressive species; avoid active or aggressive fish |
FAQ
What is the typical size of a Purple Firefish?
The Purple Firefish grows up to 4 cm (1.5 inches) in length.
Is the Purple Firefish safe around other reef fish?
Yes, it is generally reef safe and does not pose a threat to other fish when kept in a well-balanced tank with calm companions.
Do Purple Firefish need special tank conditions?
They require a secure lid due to their jumping behavior and benefit from good hiding places and calm tank mates.
Emma Baker –
Added a Purple Firefish to my 20-gallon reef tank. It’s very quiet and blends well with the other fish. The purple head markings stand out in the light, and it’s active during the day but hides when startled. I keep a secure lid and provide plenty of live rock for cover. It’s a beautiful addition to a peaceful setup.
Megan Knox –
The fish arrived healthy and looks vibrant. It’s not very active, but it’s peaceful and doesn’t bother other species. I noticed it jumps occasionally, so I made sure the tank has a tight lid. The colors are vivid, especially the red and violet edges on its fins.
Jonathan Mathis –
I’ve had this fish for three months now. It’s become a regular part of the tank’s visual appeal. It stays near the back wall and only moves when there’s no disturbance. The tank is stable, and the fish seems happy and calm.