Exquisite Firefish

The Exquisite Firefish is a stunning reef-safe saltwater fish prized for its elegant body shape, elongated dorsal fin, and brilliant combination of purple, red, orange, yellow, and white coloration. Its vibrant appearance and peaceful personality make it an excellent addition to both mixed reef and fish-only saltwater aquariums.

Also known as the Exquisite Firefish Goby, this species typically spends its time hovering just above the rockwork, quickly retreating into a favorite cave or crevice when startled. Once comfortable in an aquarium, its active hovering behavior and intense coloration make it an eye-catching addition to the reef.

Exquisite Firefish Care

Scientific Name: Nemateleotris exquisita
Common Name: Exquisite Firefish / Exquisite Firefish Goby
Fish Type: Dartfish
Care Level: Easy–Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 20 Gallons
Adult Size: Approximately 3–4"
Diet: Carnivore
Water Temperature: 75–80°F
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
Recommended pH: 8.1–8.4

Aquarium Care

The Exquisite Firefish does best in a peaceful saltwater aquarium with plenty of rockwork, caves, and hiding places. Once it establishes a preferred retreat, it will commonly hover nearby and quickly dart back into cover if it feels threatened.

A secure, tight-fitting aquarium lid is strongly recommended. Firefish are excellent jumpers and may leap from an uncovered aquarium when startled.

Because of their peaceful nature, Exquisite Firefish should generally be housed with other peaceful reef fish rather than large or aggressive tankmates that may intimidate them.

They can also become territorial toward other firefish and dartfish. Unless keeping an established compatible pair, caution should be used when adding multiple firefish to the same aquarium.

Feeding

Exquisite Firefish are carnivores and should receive a varied diet of appropriately sized marine foods. Good options include mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality marine pellets.

Offering smaller meals throughout the day can be beneficial, particularly while a new Firefish is becoming established in the aquarium.

Why Choose an Exquisite Firefish?

The Exquisite Firefish is an excellent choice for reef keepers looking for a peaceful fish with exceptional coloration that doesn't require a large aquarium.

Its brilliant multicolor body, elegant fins, and characteristic hovering behavior provide both color and personality without posing a threat to corals or most reef invertebrates.

For nano reefs, mixed reefs, and peaceful community saltwater aquariums, the Exquisite Firefish is a beautiful addition.

Available from Island Reef Aquatics with local pickup in Deltona, Florida and shipping available.