Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Peaceful

They possess an incredibly belligerent, bold, and territorial temperament. They have no fear of larger fish and will constantly boss around passive tank mates. Because of this extreme aggression, they should always be the absolute last fish added to an aquarium.

Diet

Carnivore

They are aggressive carnivores that feed primarily on small crustaceans and benthic invertebrates. They will voraciously consume frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality carnivore pellets. They also actively hunt bristle worms and copepods throughout the aquarium.

Sex ratio

Solitary

They are violently territorial and must be kept absolutely solitary in a home aquarium. Attempting to keep more than one will almost instantly result in lethal aggression. Even in very large systems, they will hunt down and kill conspecifics.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Feeding them one to two times daily is sufficient. They are extremely active hunters and will constantly forage the rockwork for live microfauna to supplement their diet. Ensure they are getting enough food if kept with larger, faster tank mates.

Bioload

The Bicolor Dottyback has a minimal bioload due to its small size. Their waste output is easily processed by typical biological filtration methods. Maintaining clean water parameters through regular water changes is generally very straightforward.

Flow

Strong

They are highly adaptable and do well in moderate to strong water flow. Natural reef environments provide surging currents which they navigate with ease. Good water movement also aids in oxygenation and overall tank health.

Jump risk

Yes

They are extremely prone to jumping, especially when chasing prey or fighting with other fish. A tight, secure mesh lid or glass canopy is absolutely mandatory. Even the smallest opening can result in the fish escaping and dying.

Reproduction

Oviparous

They are demersal spawners, creating a nest in a hidden cave or crevice. The male is responsible for guarding and aerating the egg mass. Captive breeding is possible, but raising the extremely tiny larvae is a complex and demanding process.

Compatibility & tankmates

Reef safe

While completely reef safe regarding corals, they are an absolute terror to small ornamental shrimp. They are highly aggressive and will actively harass, attack, and sometimes kill fish much larger than themselves. They should only be kept with large, aggressive fish like tangs or large angelfish.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They spend the majority of their time in the lower and middle sections of the aquarium. They are rock-dwellers that require a complex aquascape with endless tunnels and caves. They will furiously defend their chosen cave complex from any intruders.