Sunrise Dottyback
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
An unusual skyblue fish and one of the less aggressive members of the dottyback clan. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
Sporting a beautiful blue coloration with yellow flashes and yellow-rimmed eyes, this is an attractive and durable species that is less belligerent than many other dottybacks.
Family: Pseudochromidae
Other common name(s):
- Flavivertex Basslet
Native range:
- Western Indian Ocean
- Red Sea
- Gulf of Aden
Habitat: Reef or reef-sand interface, often near coral heads. Provide numerous hiding places in a rocky aquascape.
Maximum length: 8 cm (3 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 38 L (10 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
General swimming level: Midwater to bottom.
[edit] Feeding
Carnivore. Feed meaty foods such as squid, mysid shrimp, and enriched brine shrimp at least once a day. Offer color-enhancing foods regularly to prevent fading of pigmentation.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Although not as aggressive as some of its kin, the Sunrise Dottyback can be a bully in a small tank, especially when housed with smaller, placid fishes. To keep this fish with peaceful species, house in a large tank loaded with live rock and plenty of sheltering places. It is most likely picked on by larger dottybacks, stocky hawkfishes, and large damselsfishes, especially in more confined quarters. Large individuals may attack ornamental shrimps.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Demersal (on or near the bottom) spawners that tend and protect their broods. Captive-bred specimens are now available and are highly recommended for their ability to acclimate to most home aquariums.
[edit] Notes
This is a flighty little fish that will dart into a crevice when it detects a threat. It will become more brazen and spend more time in the open as it becomes accustomed to its aquarium home.
| Common name | Sunrise Dottyback +, and Flavivertex Basslet + |
| Family | Pseudochromidae + |
| Genus | Pseudochromis + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum length | 3 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 10 gal + |
| Native range | Western Indian Ocean +, Red Sea +, and Gulf of Aden + |
| Reference | 101 Best Saltwater Fishes + |
| Specific name | flavivertex + |
| Swimming level | Midwater to bottom. + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |