• General Overview

  • The Red Fire Goby, also widely known as the Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris species), is one of the most beloved small marine fish in the aquarium hobby.

  • Offered at 4–6 cm, this size represents a healthy juvenile to young adult stage, ideal for smooth acclimation into home marine aquariums.

  • Its vivid red, orange, and white coloration combined with elegant swimming behavior makes it a favorite choice for reef and nano marine tanks.

  • This species is especially valued for its calm temperament and compatibility with peaceful marine communities.

• Appearance & Coloration

  • Slender, elongated body with a graceful profile.

  • Bright red to orange upper body that fades into clean white toward the tail.

  • Long, flowing dorsal fin that gives the fish its signature “fire” appearance.

  • Semi-transparent fins add to its delicate, floating look in the water column.

  • Color intensity improves with good nutrition, proper lighting, and low stress.

• Temperament & Behavior

  • Very peaceful and shy, making it ideal for calm, low-aggression aquariums.

  • Often hovers above the substrate or near rockwork, darting quickly into hiding when startled.

  • Non-aggressive toward other fish and completely safe with invertebrates.

  • Best kept singly or as a bonded pair in larger tanks.

  • Known to be a jumper—a secure lid or mesh cover is essential.

• Tank Size & Aquarium Setup

  • Minimum tank size: 75 liters (20 gallons).

  • Ideal for nano reefs and medium-sized marine aquariums.

  • Requires plenty of live rock with caves and crevices for shelter.

  • Open swimming space is important to observe its natural hovering behavior.

  • Moderate water flow helps simulate natural reef environments without stressing the fish.

• Water Conditions (Marine Parameters)

  • Temperature: 24–27 °C

  • Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

  • Nitrate: Low (<20 ppm preferred)

  • Stable parameters are crucial; sudden changes can cause stress, hiding, or loss of appetite.

  • Regular water changes of 10–20% weekly help maintain optimal health.

• Feeding Habit & Diet

  • Carnivorous micro-feeder with a preference for small, meaty foods.

  • Recommended diet includes:

    • Frozen mysis shrimp

    • Frozen or live brine shrimp

    • Copepods and amphipods

    • High-quality marine pellets or flakes (small size)

  • Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions.

  • Consistent feeding supports strong coloration and healthy fin development.

• Reef Compatibility

  • Fully reef-safe.

  • Will not nip at corals, clams, or other invertebrates.

  • Safe with shrimp, snails, and clean-up crew organisms.

  • Ideal for mixed reef, soft coral, and LPS reef systems.

• Tank Mates & Compatibility

  • Compatible with other peaceful marine fish, such as:

    • Clownfish

    • Other gobies

    • Blennies

    • Small wrasses

  • Avoid aggressive or fast-moving fish that may intimidate it.

  • Not suitable for tanks with large predatory species.

• Care Level & Aquarist Suitability

  • Care level: Easy to intermediate

  • Suitable for beginners with a stable, cycled marine aquarium.

  • Requires gentle acclimation and a stress-free environment.

  • Best kept in tanks without aggressive tank mates.

• Health & Longevity

  • Average lifespan: 3–5 years with proper care.

  • Sensitive to bullying and poor water quality.

  • Quarantine before introduction is recommended to prevent disease.

• Why Choose Red Fire Goby Marine (4–6 cm)?

  • Brilliant red and white coloration

  • Peaceful and reef-safe

  • Ideal for nano and community marine tanks

  • Elegant hovering swimming style

  • Beginner-friendly with proper setup

The Red Fire Goby Marine (4–6 cm) is a classic and reliable choice for marine aquarists seeking a peaceful, colorful, and elegant fish. With stable water conditions, gentle tank mates, and proper feeding, this species will thrive and become a standout feature in any reef or marine aquarium.