Splendid Dottyback (Pseudochromis splendens)


splendid dottyback

The splendid dottyback (Pseudochromis splendens also Manonichthys splendens) belongs to the family Pseudochromidae. This family of fishes contains about 100 dottyback species.

The splendid dottyback is also called the splendid pseudochromis.

It is a small fish, only reaching an adult size of about 2-3 inches (5-8 cm).

These dottybacks are from the Indo-Pacific where they inhabit coral reefs. They can be successfully kept in a reef tank.

Despite their small size, splendid dottybacks can be somewhat aggressive and so don't keep them with timid fish species, especially of a similar size and shape.

You should provide plenty of hiding places in their tank with rock work and live rock.

Splendid dottybacks are carnivores, so feed them a marine-based meaty diet. They are easy to feed.

Splendid dottybacks have the ability to change their sex and so if you have two then you will have a male-female pair. While the pair is attempting to establish themselves, make sure they have plenty of hiding places as they tend to fight during this period.

Splendid dottybacks can generally be obtained for between $40-70 each. These colorful marine fish may be a little pricey, however, they are often captive bred and so by purchasing this fish species you most likely won't be removing reef fish from their natural habitat.