Pacific Blue Eye

Pseudomugil signifer
Pacific Blue Eye - Marinewise © 2024 MarineWise

Quick Facts

Scientific name Pseudomugil signifer
Other names Island Blue Eye, Northern Blue Eye, Southern Blue Eye
Size Up to 7 cm (2.75 in)
Weight A few grams

Distribution

Habitat & AU Distribution Fresh & brackish waters in coastal streams, creeks, estuaries & mangroves amongst vegetation
Depth Range 0 - 1 m (3 ft)
Pacific Blue Eye Distribution

Interesting Info

  • The Pacific blue-eye is a small freshwater fish that is native to Australia. The species is commonly found in eastern Australia, ranging from southern Queensland to Victoria.
  • It is a popular aquarium fish due to its striking blue and silver coloration.
  • The Pacific blue-eye is a shoaling fish, meaning it prefers to live in groups of its own kind.
  • The species is a prolific breeder, with females capable of laying up to 50 eggs at a time.
  • In the wild, Pacific blue-eyes feed on a variety of small insects, crustaceans, and zooplankton.
  • Estimates of lifespan are 2 to 3 years but up to 6 in the right conditions.
Species Interaction

Aquarium Fish

The Pacific blue-eye is a popular aquarium fish due to its striking blue and silver coloration, peaceful temperament, and small size. They are relatively easy to care for and can be kept in small groups in a well-maintained aquarium.

Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Actinopterygii

Order: Atheriniformes

Family: Melanotaeniidae

Genus: Pseudomugil

Species: Pseudomugil signifer

Conservation Status

The Pacific blue-eye (Pseudomugil signifer) is classified as of “least concern” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, which means that it is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. The species is widespread throughout eastern Australia and has a relatively stable population, although localised declines may occur in some areas due to habitat destruction or water pollution.

Fish Taste Quality

Pacific Blue-eye are small aquarium fish, not suitable for consumption.

Taste Rating: no rating

Pacific Blue Eye
As Aquarium Fish

Care Level: Easy to moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Diet: Omnivore

Reef Compatible: No

Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons