Purple Firefish

Last time this was in stock, it was £39.00

6-7cm

Purple Firefish or Exquisite Firefish

  • Common Name: Purple Firefish
  • Latin Name: Nemateleotris exquisita
  • Synonyms: Exquisite Firefish
  • Distribution: Native to the Western Pacific Ocean, notably found in areas around Indonesia, particularly Bali and the Philippines.
  • Max Size: Up to 3 inches (7.6 centimetres).
  • Temperature Range: 72-78°F (22-26°C).
  • pH Range: 8.1-8.4.
  • KH Range: 8-12 dKH.
  • Care Level: Moderate to difficult; they are delicate and require meticulous care.
  • Lighting Preference: Moderate to high lighting.
  • Preferred Food: Small crustaceans, mysis shrimp, high-quality flake or pellet food.
  • Behaviour: Peaceful and typically dwells in pairs or small groups. Can be shy and seeks refuge in hiding spots.
  • Suitable for Reef Tanks: Generally yes, they are reef-safe.
  • Discoverer: Not specifically named for an individual.
  • Interesting Facts: Purple Firefish are strikingly colourful and known for their elongated bodies and vibrant hues. They are a bit on the delicate side, requiring stable water conditions and a carefully managed environment for optimal health and longevity.

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Purple Firefish, Nemateleotris exquisita, also go by the name Exquisite Firefish. These fish boast vibrant hues of purple. Their elongated bodies reach about 3 inches (7.6 centimetres). Its dorsal fin stands tall, presenting a captivating display.

Taxonomy and Identifying Features

Belonging to the family Microdesmidae, the Purple Firefish shares lineage with other Firefish species, like the iconic Purple Dartfish (Nemateleotris decora). Its name, Nemateleotris, stems from Greek roots: “nema” meaning “thread” and “teleos” for “complete.” This denotes the filamentous extensions on its dorsal fin rays.

Natural Habitat

In its natural habitat, the Purple Firefish resides among rocky crevices or coral outcrops. Its surroundings are filled with vibrant corals, providing ample shelter and refuge. These fish tend to hover around bolt holes and will dart off when startled.

Keeping Purple Firefish Healthy:

Maintaining a Purple Firefish demands moderate care. Regular water changes, stable temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C), and a pH level of 8.1-8.4 are crucial. Provide ample swimming space and maintain a peaceful environment to reduce stress.

Special Requirements and Feeding

Offer a varied diet consisting of live or frozen small crustaceans, mysis shrimp, and high-quality flake or pellet food. Ensure multiple feedings throughout the day to meet their dietary needs.

How Many Should I Keep?

These fish thrive best when kept singly or in pairs, minimising territorial disputes. For larger tanks, multiple pairs can be housed, but adequate hiding spots are essential.

Lighting Preference

Moderate to high lighting suits their natural habitat. A well-lit tank mimics their environment, aiding their overall well-being.

Suitable Tank Mates

Compatible tank mates include peaceful species like gobies, dartfish, or certain clownfish. Avoid aggressive or larger fish that might intimidate the Purple Firefish.

Reproduction in the Wild

Purple Firefish reproduction typically occurs in pairs or harems in their natural habitat. Spawning happens at dusk or dawn near sheltered areas such as crevices or coral outcrops. Males entice females through courtship displays, leading to the release of eggs and sperm into the water column.

Breeding Nemateleotris exquisita

Breeding Purple Firefish in captivity requires a well-established aquarium of at least 20 gallons (75.7 litres). Mimicking their natural habitat with live rock, ample hiding spaces, and stable water conditions is crucial. Courtship involves elaborate dances by the male to attract a female. Spawning usually occurs during low light conditions. The eggs are scattered and left floating in the water column. Rearing the fry demands microscopic food such as rotifers or copepods initially, progressing to small live or frozen food as they grow.

Sexual Dimorphism

Sexual dimorphism in Purple Firefish is not easily distinguishable externally. Both males and females share similar appearances, making it challenging to differentiate between the sexes.

Distribution

Native to the Western Pacific Ocean, Purple Firefish are found in regions around Indonesia, primarily in areas like Bali and the Philippines. They inhabit reef slopes and drop-offs where they seek shelter in crevices and coral formations.

Summary

The Purple Firefish, Nemateleotris exquisita, is a stunning marine species known for its vibrant colouration and elongated body. Its reproduction involves courtship displays leading to spawning, typically in pairs or harems in their natural habitat. Breeding them in captivity demands meticulous care, mimicking their natural environment and providing appropriate food for the fry. Sexual dimorphism is minimal, and they originate from the Western Pacific, notably Indonesia and the Philippines.