Firefish

Red Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica)

Overview

The Red Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica), also known as the Fire Dartfish, is a small, strikingly colorful marine fish native to the Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and Pacific reefs. It is renowned for its vibrant red-orange body, elongated dorsal fin, and peaceful, hovering swimming behavior.

This species is a hardy, reef-safe fish, ideal for beginner and experienced aquarists looking to add color and movement to a marine or reef aquarium.

Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (115 litres)

• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: < 10 ppm

• Aquascape: Provide live rock with crevices and caves for shelter, along with open swimming areas

Red Firefish are peaceful and prefer a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions and places to retreat when feeling threatened.

Diet and Feeding

Red Firefish are carnivorous and require a diet rich in protein:

• Frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood

• High-quality marine flakes or micro-pellets

• Feed small portions 2–3 times daily

Frequent, small feedings support their fast metabolism and vibrant coloration.

Temperament and Compatibility

Red Firefish are peaceful and non-aggressive, making them excellent community fish. They may dart quickly when startled but generally pose no threat to other tank inhabitants.

Tankmate Recommendations:

• Suitable: Small, peaceful reef fish such as gobies, clownfish, and anthias

• Avoid: Aggressive or much larger predatory species

A peaceful environment with plenty of hiding spots reduces stress and encourages natural behavior.

Reef Compatibility

✅ Reef Safe

Red Firefish are reef safe and do not harm corals or sessile invertebrates. Their peaceful nature and striking coloration make them a popular addition to reef aquariums.

Additional Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 8 cm (3 inches)

• Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care

• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

• Natural Behavior: Peaceful, hovering, often forming small pairs

• Origin: Indo-Pacific reefs, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and Pacific Ocean