Zebra Bar Goby: The Striped Dartfish
The Zebra Bar Goby (Ptereleotris zebra), also frequently known as the Zebra Dartfish or Barred Dartfish, is a captivating and highly sought-after fish valued for its serene nature and brilliant striped pattern. This small, torpedo-shaped fish is a great candidate for nearly any peaceful reef or community marine aquarium.
Native to the Indo-Pacific, the Zebra Bar Goby has a sleek, elongated body that is typically a metallic light green or silvery color, accented by numerous vertical, evenly spaced, thin orange or black bars (hence the name). Unlike many bottom-dwelling gobies, this species is a planktivore that spends most of its time actively hovering over the substrate, feeding on plankton.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ptereleotris zebra |
| Common Names | Zebra Bar Goby, Zebra Dartfish, Barred Dartfish |
| Size | Up to 3.5 cm (1.4 inches) |
| Feeding Type | Planktivore |
| Habitat | Indo-Pacific reefs, shallow lagoons |
| Behavior | Peaceful, active, bottom-hovering |
FAQ
What is the ideal tank size for a Zebra Bar Goby?
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended to provide adequate space for swimming and feeding.
Is the Zebra Bar Goby compatible with other fish?
Yes, it is generally compatible with peaceful reef and community fish due to its calm and non-aggressive nature.
What type of food does the Zebra Bar Goby eat?
It primarily feeds on plankton and can be supplemented with commercially available plankton-based foods or finely crushed algae.
Kevin Pullman –
The Zebra Bar Goby is a stunning addition to my reef tank. Its bright stripes stand out beautifully against the background. It’s very active and doesn’t stress other fish. Easy to care for and has adapted well to the tank environment.
Katherine Ogden –
I’ve had this fish for three months now and it’s still very healthy. It spends most of its time near the water surface, feeding on the plankton. The coloration is vibrant and it looks natural in the tank.
Benjamin Reid –
Great choice for a peaceful, visually appealing fish. It doesn’t compete with other species and stays in its own zone. The bars are clearly visible and it’s a real eye-catcher in the tank.