Beautiful Dartfish (Ptereleotris kallista)

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

Beautiful Dartfish

Quick facts

Scientific namePtereleotris kallista
FamilyMicrodesmidae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe
TemperamentPeaceful
Dietplanktivore
Adult size3.5 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

A slender, elongated dartfish with striking coloration: head and anterior body yellow-orange with blue accents on the gill covers; posterior body transitions to pale or translucent. Distinctive vertical bands or stripes may appear on the body.

Diet and feeding

Marine invertebrates (e.g., shrimp, polychaete worms), small fish (e.g., copepods, amphipods) and algae for Ptereleotris kallista in both wild and aquarium settings.

Difficulty and care for the Beautiful 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, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.

Log Beautiful 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 Beautiful Dartfish alongside everything else in your reef.