Japanese Tiger Dartfish

The Japanese Tiger Dartfish (Pterogobius elapoides) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its distinctive tiger-like striped patterns, slender elongated body, and quick darting behavior. Males typically exhibit more intense coloration and may display territorial behavior, while females and juveniles tend to have lighter stripes and a more subdued appearance. They reach about 3 to 4 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 30 gallons.

Provide a fine sandbed with plenty of live rock for hiding spots and territorial boundaries, along with open swimming space. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020-1.025, temp ~72-79°F, pH ~8.1-8.4), and ensure a secure lid since this species is prone to jumping. Diet should consist of small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and high-quality pellets or frozen foods. With proper care, this dartfish adds striking patterns and lively movement to marine aquariums.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.