Tubifer

The Tubifer (Siphamia tubifer) is a peaceful species that is reef-safe, admired for its small size, translucent body with a striking black midline stripe, and bioluminescent organ near the gut that emits a faint glow in the dark. Males typically develop a slightly more robust body and may display subtle courtship behavior, including mouthbrooding during breeding, while females/juveniles remain slightly smaller with less prominent abdominal features. They reach about 1.5 to 2 inches in length and should be housed in aquariums of at least 10 gallons, though larger tanks (20+ gallons) are ideal for groups.

Provide plenty of live rock and hiding spots, especially shaded areas or caves to mimic their nocturnal habits. Maintain stable water parameters (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temperature ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4), and a secure lid, as they may jump when startled.

Diet should consist of mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, copepods, and finely-sized marine pellets or frozen foods. With proper care and low lighting, this bioluminescent fish makes a fascinating and rare addition to nano and reef 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.