Purple Firefish Goby

Purple Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris exquisita)

The Exquisite Firefish, a Western Indian Ocean relative of the Purple Firefish (Nemateleotris decora), is distinguished by its brighter yellow hue compared to its Western Pacific counterpart. It tends to inhabit deeper waters and grows slightly larger, with a slimmer body, shorter face, and first dorsal fin. For optimal care, it should be housed in a 20-gallon or larger aquarium with ample loose coral rubble and a secure lid to prevent escape. Although generally non-aggressive towards other fish, it can be territorial with its own kind unless they are a mated pair. The Exquisite Firefish primarily feeds on suspended prey but will also forage on the substrate.