Lined Dartfish Pair – Ptereleotris grammica

Introduction to Saltwater Dartfish

Dartfish are graceful, slender-bodied reef fish known for their hovering swimming style and darting movements. Found in lagoon and reef environments, these fish prefer hiding in rock crevices and hovering mid-water to feed on small planktonic organisms. Unlike some small reef fish, dartfish are social and best kept in pairs or small groups, where they establish strong bonds and display natural schooling behaviors.

Care Requirements

Care Level: Easy – Hardy and adaptable Minimum Tank Size: 30+ gallons (for a small group) Aquarium Setup: Requires live rock formations for shelter Prefers moderate water flow with open swimming space Secure lid required – Dartfish are prone to jumping when startled Dartfish are peaceful and non-territorial, making them ideal for community reef tanks. Diet & Feeding Dartfish are carnivorous plankton feeders, requiring a nutrient-rich diet of small, meaty foods. Diet Type: Carnivorous – Prefers small invertebrates and protein-based foods

Recommended Foods:

Mysis shrimp and brine shrimp High-quality marine pellets and flakes Copepods and other microfauna Frequent, small feedings help maintain energy levels and natural foraging behaviors.

Lifespan & Growth Rate

Lifespan: 5-8 years Size Potential: Typically grows 3-5 inches, depending on the species Dartfish grow steadily and require proper tank conditions to thrive long-term.

Temperament & Compatibility

Temperament: Peaceful – Best suited for community aquariums Reef Safe? Yes – Safe with corals, shrimp, and other invertebrates Dartfish are timid by nature, so providing a stress-free environment with ample hiding spaces helps reduce shyness and encourages natural behaviors.

Common Challenges & Considerations

Jumping Risk: Dartfish are highly prone to jumping, requiring a tight-fitting lid. Prefers Small Groups: Best kept in pairs or small groups to prevent stress. Shy When First Introduced: May take time to adjust and become more active once comfortable. Providing a calm environment with minimal aggression ensures healthy, active dartfish.

Color Varieties & Popular Species

Dartfish are available in a range of stunning colors, adding a unique aesthetic to reef tanks. Popular Dartfish Species: Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica) – White body with a red-orange tail, one of the most popular reef-safe fish Purple Firefish (Nemateleotris decora) – Vibrant purple and white coloration, slightly more reserved than other dartfish Scissortail Dartfish (Ptereleotris evides) – Sleek body with black and white markings, known for its smooth swimming motion Zebra Dartfish (Ptereleotris zebra) – Pale blue coloration with black striping, a true schooling dartfish