Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Aggressive

They are known for their feisty and uncompromising temperament, often acting as the boss of the rockwork. Despite their small stature, they have a lot of attitude and will vigorously chase away any perceived threats. They are an excellent choice for a rugged, semi-aggressive community where their boldness can be appreciated.

Diet

Carnivore

A diet rich in marine proteins is essential to keep them healthy and vibrant. Feed them a varied menu of frozen mysis, chopped krill, clam meat, and specially formulated carnivorous pellets. Live foods can be offered occasionally to stimulate their predatory nature and provide enrichment.

Sex ratio

Solitary

They should strictly be kept one to an aquarium, as conspecific aggression is notoriously lethal. Two males, or even two females, will fight continuously until one is severely injured or killed. Establishing a true pair is a delicate process best left to dedicated and experienced breeders.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Offer them small meals two to three times a day to match their active metabolism. They are enthusiastic eaters and will eagerly snatch food from the water column before it hits the bottom. Care should be taken not to overfeed, as uneaten meaty foods can quickly spoil the water.

Bioload

This dottyback has a relatively low to moderate bioload, suitable for most well-maintained marine aquariums. Their carnivorous diet leads to protein-rich waste, which should be managed with an efficient protein skimmer. Consistent maintenance and water testing will prevent any degradation of water quality.

Flow

Moderate

They thrive in moderate to strong water flow, which replicates the dynamic reef environments they originate from. Good flow ensures proper oxygenation and helps carry food particles past their chosen rocky outcroppings. They will easily adapt to most flow patterns provided there are calm areas to retreat into.

Jump risk

Yes

Like their relatives, they possess a strong instinct to jump when startled, threatened, or excited. A completely enclosed canopy or a tight-fitting mesh screen is absolutely necessary to prevent them from going carpet surfing. All small gaps near equipment outputs or wires must be thoroughly secured.

Reproduction

Oviparous

While difficult, captive breeding is possible; the male will prepare a nesting site in a small cave. After spawning, the male fiercely guards the egg mass, aerating it with his fins until the larvae hatch. The microscopic larvae require an immense amount of care, including the cultivation of specialized rotifers.

Compatibility & tankmates

Reef safe

They exhibit a fierce territoriality and will not hesitate to attack fish that encroach on their hiding spots. They are incompatible with shy or peaceful species such as firefish, small gobies, or delicate cardinalfish. It is highly recommended to house them with more aggressive or larger tank mates that can hold their own.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They are bottom to mid-level dwellers, inextricably linked to the live rock structure of the aquarium. They claim specific caves and crevices as their own, spending their days darting in and out of their territory. They rarely swim openly at the surface of the tank.