Oblique-lined Dottyback

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Western Pacific, ranging from the Ryukyu Islands to Rowley Shoals and the Great Barrier Reef. Found in lagoons and outer reef slopes at depths of 2 to 20 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Pseudochromidae. Exhibits an elongated, muscular body. Reaches up to 7.5 cm in size. Marked by oblique rows of scales on the sides.

Social Behavior: Highly aggressive and territorial. Will fiercely guard its cave and bully smaller fish, particularly other dottybacks or red-colored tankmates.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Distinct sexual dimorphism. Males are bright red to reddish-orange with blue-ringed eyes and faint oblique stripes. Females are pale grayish-brown or yellowish with clear fins.

Aquarium Setup: Minimum aquarium size of 120 liters. Provide extensive live rock structures with multiple caves and crevices to create visual barriers.

Diet and Feeding: Carnivore. Feeds on small crustaceans. Offer frozen mysis, chopped krill, brine shrimp, and protein-rich pellets. Feed 2 times daily.

Water Quality: Highly adaptable. Keep temperature at 22-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, and salinity at SG 1.020-1.025. Maintain moderate current.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: Avoid peaceful or passive species. Best housed with larger, assertive fish such as tangs, dwarf angels, and triggerfish. Will eat ornamental shrimp.

Aquarium Breeding: Cave spawner. The female lays a ball of eggs inside a cave, which the male guards and aerates until hatching.

Risks and Diseases: Very hardy. Ensure the aquarium is tightly covered to prevent jumping.