The Bar Goby (Ptereleotris zebra), also known as the Zebra Dartfish, is a striking fish with an attractive and unique coloration, that's perfect for reef tanks.
The head and body of this goby species are light green, creating a vibrant base color. Adorning its slender body are numerous vertical, evenly-spaced thin orange stripes, forming an intricate pattern that enhances its overall allure. This captivating combination of light green and orange stripes makes the Zebra Dart Goby a visually stunning addition to any saltwater aquarium.
Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in areas such as the Red Sea and the Great Barrier Reef, the Zebra Dart Goby can typically be found in sandy areas near reefs. It prefers to reside in caves or crevices within the substrate, seeking shelter and safety. This species is known for its peaceful nature, making it an excellent choice for community aquariums.
Here's a care summary focused specifically on the Zebra Dartfish:
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (larger if keeping a pair or group)
Aquascape: Open swimming space + plenty of rockwork and hiding spots
Substrate: Sand is ideal (they may burrow occasionally)
Tank Cover: Secure lid is essential – they are notorious jumpers
Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.025
Ammonia/Nitrite: 0
Nitrate: <20 ppm
Type: Carnivore
What to Feed: Mysis shrimp, Brine shrimp (enriched), Copepods, High-quality frozen and micro-pellet foods
Feeding Frequency: 1–2x daily
Peaceful and shy, especially when first introduced.
Can be kept singly, in mated pairs, or small groups (in large tanks).
May fight with conspecifics if not introduced properly or if tank is too small.
Compatible with other peaceful fish, gobies, and reef-safe inverts.
Acclimate slowly; they can be sensitive to changes.
Provide calm tank mates - aggressive fish will stress or outcompete them.
Needs time to adjust to captive life; might hide at first but warms up with time.
Can be jumpy when startled - always keep the lid on!
Want help planning a tank that includes one, or curious how they get along with a specific species or coral?