Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Territorial

This species has a bold, assertive, and territorial temperament. They act much larger than their size suggests and are not afraid to confront bigger fish. While their aggression needs to be managed, their active and feisty personality makes them a fascinating addition to the right tank.

Diet

Carnivore

A strictly carnivorous diet is necessary for this species to thrive. They should be fed a variety of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. High-quality carnivore pellets can be offered but should be supplemented heavily with frozen preparations.

Sex ratio

Solitary

They should only be kept individually due to extreme, often lethal, aggression towards their own kind. Keeping two together will almost certainly result in the death of the weaker fish. Only confirmed, bonded pairs should be kept together, and only in very large, well-established aquariums.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Feed them small amounts two to three times daily. This frequent feeding schedule supports their active metabolism and helps reduce their aggression towards other tank mates. Careful observation during feeding ensures they receive their share without overfeeding the entire tank.

Bioload

This dottyback presents a moderate bioload to the aquarium. Because it is an active carnivore requiring frequent feeding, it produces a proportional amount of waste. A solid filtration system, including a good protein skimmer, is essential to maintain excellent water quality.

Flow

Moderate

They prefer moderate to strong water flow, simulating the reef environments they naturally inhabit. The current helps oxygenate the water and encourages their active, darting swimming behavior. They will utilize caves and crevices to escape the current when they need to rest.

Jump risk

Yes

Like all dottybacks, they are notorious jumpers and pose a significant escape risk. A tight-fitting lid or a fine mesh screen over the aquarium is absolutely mandatory. They are easily spooked by sudden movements or aggressive encounters, which often leads to jumping.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Breeding in captivity is possible but highly challenging. The male will prepare a nest in a cave, and after the female lays eggs, he will guard them fiercely until they hatch. Rearing the microscopic larvae requires immense dedication and a constant supply of specialized live foods like rotifers.

Compatibility & tankmates

Reef safe

It is known for its territorial and semi-aggressive nature, making it a poor choice for peaceful community tanks. It will harass timid species, especially those with similar body shapes or bottom-dwelling habits. It is best housed with larger, more robust fish like tangs, large angelfish, and sturdy damselfish.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They are bottom to mid-level dwellers that rely heavily on the live rock structure. They establish a specific cave as their home base and fiercely defend the surrounding territory. They rarely swim openly in the upper levels of the water column.