Just bought 3 very small firefish- was this a mistake?

William Spak · Dec 25, 2020

Hello,

Yesterday I bought 3 very very small firefish from an LFS. I’m just now reading that they don’t do well in schools, only in pairs, or large groups. Should I buy more to diffuse the aggression?

I see them at the store all the time in schools, so I just figured it was fine to school them.

I have a 75g, and I covered the lid with saran wrap- or however you spell that- until I get a custom cut glass.

By the way, one of them was missing this morning, but I just chalked that up to it hiding in the rocks.

Let me know any advice, and merry christmas everyone!

pecan2phat · Dec 25, 2020

I once tried to put 10 of them in a 120g and eventually there was 1 left.
Hope this answers your Q.

John08007 · Dec 25, 2020

I had 3 at one point, never seen them fighting. Instead of glass how about making a diy screen with the kit from BRS, it would be better for gas exchange

CMMorgan · Dec 25, 2020

I love firefish but I'll never waste money on them again. It did not matter how many I had, they always disappeared. I never witnessed any aggression. I think it was maybe a combination of ills. I found them in the overflow more than once - and yes... I had a lid on it. They went though the grooves. I'm sure I had some flyers. Cute fish, excellent little hiders. Just more work than they were worth.

Tiger Brown · Dec 25, 2020

Agree with above, beautiful fish but mine always disappear without a trace. Not sure I’ll ever purchase another one again.

KWT · Dec 25, 2020

Had mine since I started the tank after cycling. 4 of them, still have them 4 months later with no problems

Jen1978 · Jan 3, 2021

I also just bought 3 on the 31st. One was dead int he QT this morning. Checked paramaters and all was well, no copper or meds in there yet, as I just observe first week. About an hour after removal of the dead (he was the biggest of the 3) I noticed one was missing his top fin and trying to attack the other. I put him in a "bully box" for now and see if he will calm. I'd hate to move the non aggressor to the DT tank already but I can't leave the mean one in the bully box forever either. Sumpless system so the a hole can't live in there either.

KWT · Jan 3, 2021

We put 4 in a 180g about 4 months ago and they are still swimming together mostly

vetteguy53081 · Jan 3, 2021

I have a trio for 2+ years and no issues. Hide a lot- they do and Jumpers they are. very hardy and peaceful

rtparty · Jan 3, 2021

Firefish should be kept singly unless they are a confirmed mated pair. You will end up with 1 at some point unless your tank is huge. Like 8-12ft huge.

I've been keeping them for 15 years and never had one just disappear. Jump, yes. They are called dartfish for a reason. When spooked, they dart and sometimes that dart is a jump. Tight fitting lids are required with them. They are also super shy and timid. Need to make sure you see them eating well when you feed. The more aggressive and bold eaters will get the food before a firefish.

I'd love to find a Helfrichi again but can't justify their prices right now.