Saltcorner
By Bob Goemans
By Bob Goemans
Likely Reef Tank Suitable
Likely Fish-Only Tank Suitable
These fishes belong in the Order Perciformes and Suborder Percoidei as members of the Family Microdesmidae (Dartfishes & Wormfishes) consisting of 2 subfamilies, 10 genera, and 73 species. Often thought of as "Gobies" however, they are members of the Dartfish Family Microdesmidae. These fish are zooplankton feeders, and generally hover in open water, yet near the safety of an area where they can quickly retreat if threatened. They like the security of wedging themselves into tight places for a restful night's sleep. Unfortunately, nighttime predators such as crabs may make them an evening snack. One per tank is sometimes recommended, as they can be quite quarrelsome among themselves, yet small groups have been successfully maintained.
