{"product_id":"ptereleotris-zebra-m-l","title":"Zebra Dartfish (Ptereleotris zebra) M\/L","description":"\u003ch2\u003eOverview\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Zebra Dartfish, \u003cem\u003ePtereleotris zebra\u003c\/em\u003e, is a graceful marine fish prized for its bold black-and-white striping and elegant, hovering movement above the substrate. Often sold under the name \u003cstrong\u003ePtereleotris zebra M\/L\u003c\/strong\u003e, this species is a superb choice for aquarists looking for a peaceful, eye-catching fish that adds activity without aggression. It is a true dartfish rather than a goby or blenny, and it spends much of its time mid-water or close to the sand, retreating quickly into a burrow or cave when startled.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis species is reef-safe and generally compatible with a wide range of peaceful marine livestock. It is best suited to established aquariums with stable water quality, plenty of open swimming space, and a secure lid, as dartfish are known jumpers. With the right environment, \u003cem\u003ePtereleotris zebra\u003c\/em\u003e is hardy, fascinating to watch, and a wonderful addition to a mixed reef or fish-only marine setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt Tropical Fish Co, we focus on healthy, well-acclimated marine livestock, and this fish is covered by our \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e service for added peace of mind.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCare at a Glance\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eAttribute\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth\u003eDetails\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eScientific name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cem\u003ePtereleotris zebra\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCommon name\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eZebra Dartfish\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCare level\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eModerate\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperament\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePeaceful\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAdult size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eUp to 10 cm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMinimum tank size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e150 litres\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTemperature\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e24–28°C\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003epH\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8.1–8.4\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiet\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCarnivore \/ micro-predator\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eLifespan\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e5–8 years\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTank region\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eMiddle\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003ch2\u003eOrigin \u0026amp; Natural Habitat\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePtereleotris zebra\u003c\/em\u003e is native to the Indo-Pacific, where it inhabits coral reef slopes, lagoons, and sandy areas adjacent to reef structures. In the wild, it typically lives in pairs or small groups, hovering just above the seabed and darting back to shelter at the first sign of danger. Its natural habitat includes areas with rubble, caves, and burrows, which provide the security this species relies on.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnderstanding its natural behaviour is key to long-term success in the aquarium. Zebra Dartfish are not heavy-bodied or territorial; instead, they depend on quick reflexes and a safe refuge. A tank with fine sand, rockwork, and sheltered overhangs will help the fish settle in and display more confidently. They are especially appealing in reef systems where their striped pattern contrasts beautifully with live rock and coral.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Setup \u0026amp; Water Parameters\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA mature marine aquarium is strongly recommended for this species. While not difficult to keep once established, Zebra Dartfish can be shy and may struggle in tanks with aggressive tank mates or unstable water conditions. Provide a minimum of 150 litres, though larger aquariums are preferable if keeping more than one or if the tank contains active fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUse a fine sand substrate to allow natural burrowing behaviour and include plenty of rockwork with caves, crevices, and sheltered areas. Open swimming space is also important, as this fish likes to hover and make short, rapid movements through the water column. A tight-fitting lid is essential because dartfish are notorious jumpers, especially when first introduced or when startled by sudden movement outside the tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMaintain stable marine conditions with strong filtration, good oxygenation, and regular water changes. This species does best in a peaceful aquarium with low to moderate flow in its preferred areas, although overall circulation should still be sufficient for reef health. Sudden changes in salinity, temperature, or water quality should be avoided.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRecommended parameters:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–28°C\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSalinity:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.023–1.025 SG\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8.1–8.4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAmmonia\/Nitrite:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNitrate:\u003c\/strong\u003e kept as low as practical, ideally under 20 ppm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause this fish is relatively slender and can be timid at feeding time, it is best introduced to a tank with calm companions and regular feeding routines. A well-established aquarium with natural microfauna will help support its confidence and appetite.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFeeding Guide\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Zebra Dartfish is a carnivorous micro-predator that feeds on small zooplankton and tiny invertebrates in the wild. In the aquarium, it should be offered a varied diet of appropriately sized marine foods. Good options include enriched frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, finely chopped seafood, and quality marine pellets or granules designed for small carnivorous fish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeed small amounts two to three times daily, especially during acclimation, to ensure the fish gets enough food before more boisterous tank mates can outcompete it. Many individuals learn to take prepared foods readily, but some may initially prefer live or frozen foods. Using a feeding ring or target feeding near its preferred area can help shy specimens settle and feed more confidently.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA varied diet supports colour, energy, and long-term health. Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can quickly affect water quality in marine systems. As with all marine fish, consistency and water stability are just as important as diet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTank Mates \/ Compatibility\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePtereleotris zebra\u003c\/em\u003e is a peaceful species that should be housed with similarly calm tank mates. It does well with other non-aggressive reef fish and is generally safe with corals and most invertebrates. Suitable companions include clownfish, firefish, chromis, gobies, blennies, small wrasses with mild temperaments, cardinalfish, and many reef-safe invertebrates such as cleaner shrimp and snails.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause it is shy and easily intimidated, avoid housing it with large, boisterous, or territorial fish. Aggressive damsels, dottybacks, triggers, puffers, large hawkfish, and predatory species may cause stress or prevent feeding. It is also wise to avoid very active tank mates that constantly chase through the water column, as this can keep a dartfish hidden and reduce its confidence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf keeping more than one, a larger aquarium with plenty of visual barriers and burrow sites is recommended. In smaller tanks, single specimens are usually the safest option. A secure environment and peaceful community will allow this species to display its natural hovering behaviour and striking patterning to best effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eWhy Buy from Tropical Fish Co\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt Tropical Fish Co, we understand that marine fish need careful handling, proper acclimation, and reliable delivery. That is why we offer a \u003cstrong\u003elive arrival guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003efast UK delivery\u003c\/strong\u003e on eligible livestock orders, helping your new Zebra Dartfish arrive in excellent condition and with minimal stress.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWe select stock with health and quality in mind, and we aim to provide clear, practical care information so you can set up your aquarium with confidence. Whether you are building a peaceful reef display or adding a distinctive, elegant fish to an established marine system, \u003cem\u003ePtereleotris zebra\u003c\/em\u003e is a rewarding choice. Its unique behaviour, reef-safe nature, and bold striping make it a standout species for aquarists who appreciate subtle movement and natural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eChoose Tropical Fish Co for dependable service, knowledgeable support, and marine livestock that is packed and shipped with care.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Fish Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57446832341327,"sku":"MN63","price":63.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1007\/1408\/6735\/files\/tropical-fish-mn63.webp?v=1777839438","url":"https:\/\/tropical-fish-co.myshopify.com\/products\/ptereleotris-zebra-m-l","provider":"Tropical Fish Co","version":"1.0","type":"link"}