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About Decora Firefish

The Decora Firefish (Nemateleotris decora) is a stunning reef fish recognised for its elegant elongated fins and striking purple, white, yellow and burgundy colouration. Its flowing dorsal fin and vivid markings make it one of the most attractive members of the Firefish group.

Decora Firefish are generally peaceful and shy, spending much of their time hovering above a rock or hiding near a favourite cave. Once comfortable, they will regularly venture into the open water to feed before retreating to cover.

A mature aquarium with plenty of live rock, caves and crevices is ideal. Like other Firefish, Decora Firefish are accomplished jumpers, so a secure lid or mesh cover is essential.

They are an excellent choice for peaceful reef aquariums and are reef safe, normally leaving corals and ornamental invertebrates alone.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Nemateleotris decora
• Common Name: Decora Firefish, Purple Firefish
• Family: Microdesmidae
• Type: Marine Fish
• Adult Size: Approximately 8–9 cm
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate
• Minimum Aquarium: 75 L+
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 8.0–8.4
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
• Diet: Carnivore / Planktivore
• Tank Level: Bottom to Midwater
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Recommended Setup: Live rock, caves and secure cover

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Decora Firefish reef safe?

Yes. Decora Firefish are reef safe and generally pose no threat to corals or ornamental invertebrates.

Are Decora Firefish jumpers?

Yes. They can leap from an aquarium when frightened, making a tight-fitting lid or mesh screen extremely important.

Can Decora Firefish be kept with other Firefish?

They can be territorial toward other Firefish and dartfish. Keeping a single specimen is generally the safest option unless a compatible pair is established.

What do Decora Firefish eat?

They readily accept mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped marine seafood and quality marine pellets or frozen foods.

Are Decora Firefish aggressive?

No. They are generally peaceful but may defend their chosen cave or territory against similar fish.

What aquarium setup do they prefer?

Provide live rock with small caves and sheltered areas, along with open swimming space above the rockwork.

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Keeping the aquarium uncovered
• ❌ Housing them with aggressive tankmates
• ❌ Providing insufficient hiding places
• ❌ Keeping multiple Firefish without considering territorial behaviour
• ❌ Introducing them into an immature aquarium
• ❌ Failing to provide regular small meals for newly settled fish