Firefish Exquisite

Also known as the Exquisite Firefish or Decorated Dartfish.

The Firefish Exquisite is a peaceful, dart-shaped reef fish known for its vibrant coloration and hovering swimming style. With a slender body, elongated dorsal fin, and bright contrasting colors, it brings movement and beauty to nano and medium-sized reef tanks. Their gentle temperament and hardy nature make them suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Nemateleotris exquisita
• Common Names: Firefish Exquisite, Exquisite Dartfish, Exquisite Fire Goby
• Adult Size: 3–3.5 inches
• Lifespan: Several years with proper care
• Temperament: Peaceful, shy, hover-swimming
• Reef Compatibility: Fully reef-safe
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Experience Level: Beginner-friendly

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Natural Habitat: Firefish Exquisite are found in the Indo-Pacific, living in sandy reef flats and rubble zones where they hover near burrows for safety. They prefer open water space above a secure retreat.

Tank Environment:

• Provide rockwork with caves or crevices for quick retreat
• Use sand or mixed substrate for natural burrow use
• Moderate water flow with calm zones for hovering

Recommended Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025 sg
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Nitrate: Low to moderate levels preferred

Diet & Feeding

Firefish Exquisite are carnivorous and feed on planktonic organisms in the wild. In captivity they readily accept a variety of small meaty foods.

Recommended Foods:

•  Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• Copepods and small zooplankton
• Finely chopped marine meats
• High-quality micro-pellets for carnivores

Feeding Schedule: Feed 1–2 times per day in small portions. Ensure food drifts into the mid-water column where they naturally feed.

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament: Peaceful and timid, often hovering in the water column near a chosen cave or burrow. They may retreat quickly when startled.

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with peaceful fish such as clownfish, gobies, blennies, anthias, cardinalfish, and small wrasses 
• Avoid aggressive or fast-chasing fish that may stress them
• Fully safe with corals and invertebrates

Breeding Potential

Firefish Exquisite may form monogamous pairs and lay eggs in burrows or caves. Captive breeding success is rare because larvae require specialized planktonic foods and stable conditions.

Why Choose Us

At Dr Reefs, every Firefish Exquisite goes through a full multi-week quarantine process. Each fish is parasite-free, closely monitored, and conditioned to accept a wide range of foods. This ensures your fish arrives healthy, stable, and fully adapted to aquarium life for the best long-term success in your home reef tank.