About Purple Firefish

The Purple Firefish is a stunning variant of the Firefish family featuring a purple to lavender body instead of the standard white. Like other firefish, they have an elongated body with a dramatic dorsal fin and bright coloration. Native to the Indo-Pacific, these peaceful fish are excellent for reef tanks but are extremely prone to jumping and must have a secure lid. They are shy fish that need plenty of hiding spots and should be kept singly unless in very large tanks. Their purple coloration makes them a unique alternative to the standard Firefish Goby.

Care Guide

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Purple Firefish need secure tanks with plenty of hiding spots.

Essential Setup:

  • 20+ gallons
  • Caves and hiding spots (essential)
  • TIGHT-FITTING LID (will jump)
  • Rock ledges for perching
  • Gentle flow
  • Temperature 72-78°F

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.5°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Carnivores with small mouths:

  • Frozen Mysis shrimp (small pieces)
  • Frozen brine shrimp
  • Marine pellets (small)
  • Copepods

Target feeding: May be shy about eating initially.

Behavior & Compatibility

Peaceful and shy:

  • Peaceful: Perfect reef fish
  • Shy: Need hiding spots
  • Territorial: To other firefish
  • Active: Hover near hiding spot

Good Tank Mates:

  • Clownfish
  • Cardinalfish
  • Blennies
  • Gobies
  • Dartfish
  • Peaceful reef fish

Avoid:

  • Other firefish (will fight)
  • Aggressive fish
  • Dottybacks
  • Fish that occupy same swimming level

Jumping Risk

  • EXTREME jumpers: Will escape any gap
  • MANDATORY secure lid: No exceptions
  • Startle easily: Jump when frightened
  • Small openings: Can fit through tiny gaps

Purple Coloration

  • Lavender to purple body: Unique color
  • Yellow face: Contrast
  • Red tail: Like standard firefish
  • Dorsal fin: Dramatic when erect

Tips for Success

  • Secure lid absolutely essential
  • One per tank (usually)
  • Provide multiple hiding spots
  • May be shy initially
  • Target feed if needed
  • Beautiful purple alternative

Compatible Tank Mates

🐠 Clownfish
🐠 Tangs
🐠 Cardinalfish
🐠 Blennies
🐠 Gobies