Arabian Dartfish (Ptereleotris arabica)

Fish in the family Microdesmidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Arabian Dartfish

Quick facts

Scientific namePtereleotris arabica
FamilyMicrodesmidae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietcarnivore
Adult size5.5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Slender, elongated body with a tan to yellowish-brown coloration. The head features a distinctive blunt snout with small eyes positioned high on the body, typical of dartfish. Dorsal and anal fins are elongated and run most of the body length.

Diet and feeding

Feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, offer frequent small meals of frozen mysis shrimp, copepods, and high-quality prepared micro-foods or flake foods designed for small carnivores.

Difficulty and care for the Arabian Dartfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Hole-in-the-Head disease, Columnaris disease

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific, including the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and western Indian Ocean regions.

Log Arabian Dartfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Arabian Dartfish alongside everything else in your reef.