Ptereleotris Zebra - The Zebra Dartfish

Overview

• Native to the Indo-Pacific region, often found in sandy reef slopes and lagoons.
• Recognized for its elongated body with distinct black and white horizontal stripes.
• A peaceful schooling fish that thrives in marine aquariums with open swimming space.

Feeding

• Carnivorous diet, primarily feeding on plankton and small invertebrates.
• Readily accepts frozen and live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and copepods.
• Can be trained to eat high-quality marine pellets and flakes.
• Frequent, small feedings help maintain energy levels and overall health.

Habitat

• Typically found in sandy-bottom reef environments with moderate water movement.
• Prefers stable water conditions and ample open space for darting behavior.
• Requires an aquarium with fine sand and rock structures for hiding.
• Best kept in an environment that mimics its natural habitat with gentle currents.

Fish Care

• Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C).
• Ideal pH level: 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.
• Requires a well-maintained tank with high water quality and consistent filtration.
• Can be skittish if kept alone; best maintained in small groups.
• Providing a peaceful environment with minimal aggression ensures longevity.

Compatibility

• Peaceful and suitable for community reef aquariums.
• Compatible with other small, non-aggressive fish such as gobies, clownfish, and wrasses.
• Should not be housed with large or aggressive species that may intimidate them.
• Thrives in groups, displaying natural schooling behavior in the aquarium.

Aquarium Behavior

• Active swimmer that moves quickly between open spaces and hiding spots.
• Often seen hovering above the substrate, scanning for food particles.
• Can be shy when first introduced but becomes more confident in a peaceful setting.
• Providing a well-structured tank with gentle currents encourages natural behavior.