Lined Dartfish (Ptereleotris Grammica)

Species Name : Ptereleotris Grammica

Care Level : Moderate

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Blue, Yellow

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : Yes

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 5"

Origin : Indo-West Pacific Ocean

Family : Ptereleotridae

Minimum Tank Size : 30 gallons

Lined Dartfish (Ptereleotris Grammica) is a genus of dartfishes found in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans.

Ptereleotris Grammica are recognized by their unique torpedo like shape. The specific epithet “grammica” is rooted in the greek for “line”, which is very aptly displayed in yellow along all median fins and its body. The dorsal fin is characteristic for this species (and all other species in its clade), being winged and deeply crenulated between the rays. Head and body pale with a dusky yellowish-orange midlateral stripe and alternating blue and yellowish-orange stripes on the dorsal and anal fins; chin with a low, longitudinal, median fold. In the correct lighting, Ptereleotris Grammica scintillates with a metallic blue glitter along the margins of its stripes and fins; a highly fetching and grandiose compliment to its already stunning beauty.

It should be housed in a 30 gallon or larger aquarium with plenty of loose coral rubble, and a tight-fitting lid to prevent it from jumping out of the tank. It requires ample swimming room and a sand bottom for occasional burrowing. Dartfish need plenty of rockwork to hide in and feel comfortable. The name "Dartfish" comes from their habit of "darting" quickly back into the rockwork whenever threatened or frightened.

Ptereleotris Grammica is shy and retiring, and will fail to thrive in a bustling community tank. They are peaceful toward other fish but may become territorial if they are crowded in small aquariums (particularly with members of their own species).  

This species displays beautifully in a quiet biotope with low human and fish traffic, stocked with similarly well-behaved fish of petite stature and dainty behaviour. Should not be housed with aggressive fishes such as groupers, dottybacks, triggerfishes or aggressive angelfishes. In the wild, Lined Dartfish are found in pairs, and should be housed in the home aquarium as such. 

Requires a meaty diet, including fortified brine shrimp, mysis, and other meaty type marine fresh or frozen foods, which should be finely chopped and dispensed upstream so the water current brings the food to within the area it inhabits. Needs two feedings per day.

Size: 3" to 4"