Image 1 of 2
Image 2 of 2
Purple Firefish Goby – Includes Fish Pack
Purple Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris decora)
Difficulty: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Scientific Name: Nemateleotris decora
Common Names: Purple Firefish, Decorated Firefish, Purple Dartfish, Flame Firefish, Elegant Firefish, Fire Goby
Adult Size: Up to 4 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Reef Safe: Yes
UV Required: No
Protein Skimmer Required: No
Diet: Live, frozen, and dry marine foods
The Purple Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris decora) is a graceful, goby-like reef fish prized for its elegant coloration, calm behavior, and beginner-friendly care requirements. Native to the Indo-West Pacific region, this species is well known for its resilience and ease of care, making it an excellent choice for new reef aquarists as well as experienced hobbyists.
This firefish displays a beautifully elongated body with soft lavender to purple tones, accented by lighter facial markings and an extended dorsal fin that adds to its refined appearance. Its peaceful nature allows it to coexist well with other non-aggressive tank mates, making it suitable for community reef systems.
The Purple Firefish spends much of its time hovering just above the rockwork, retreating quickly into crevices when startled. Providing ample rock structures, caves, and sheltered areas is essential to help this fish feel secure. While generally hardy and disease-resistant, it is known for its jumping behavior when stressed, so aquariums should always be covered with a secure lid or mesh top.
This species adapts well to captive diets and readily accepts a variety of foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality dry marine pellets or flakes.
With proper care, a stable environment, and secure tank coverage, the Purple Firefish Goby becomes a long-lasting, peaceful, and visually striking addition to any reef aquarium.
Purple Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris decora)
Difficulty: Beginner
Temperament: Peaceful
Scientific Name: Nemateleotris decora
Common Names: Purple Firefish, Decorated Firefish, Purple Dartfish, Flame Firefish, Elegant Firefish, Fire Goby
Adult Size: Up to 4 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Reef Safe: Yes
UV Required: No
Protein Skimmer Required: No
Diet: Live, frozen, and dry marine foods
The Purple Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris decora) is a graceful, goby-like reef fish prized for its elegant coloration, calm behavior, and beginner-friendly care requirements. Native to the Indo-West Pacific region, this species is well known for its resilience and ease of care, making it an excellent choice for new reef aquarists as well as experienced hobbyists.
This firefish displays a beautifully elongated body with soft lavender to purple tones, accented by lighter facial markings and an extended dorsal fin that adds to its refined appearance. Its peaceful nature allows it to coexist well with other non-aggressive tank mates, making it suitable for community reef systems.
The Purple Firefish spends much of its time hovering just above the rockwork, retreating quickly into crevices when startled. Providing ample rock structures, caves, and sheltered areas is essential to help this fish feel secure. While generally hardy and disease-resistant, it is known for its jumping behavior when stressed, so aquariums should always be covered with a secure lid or mesh top.
This species adapts well to captive diets and readily accepts a variety of foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality dry marine pellets or flakes.
With proper care, a stable environment, and secure tank coverage, the Purple Firefish Goby becomes a long-lasting, peaceful, and visually striking addition to any reef aquarium.

