S&R Orchid Dottyback Captive-Bred

About the S&R Orchid Dottyback Captive-Bred

Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Safe: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons
Max Size: 3 inches

There is a certain wow-factor over the Orchid Dottyback. The striking deep purple coloration is mesmerizing to most people and we could not help noticing that is a favorite with most female aquarists. Another characteristic is the black line that runs from the tip of the nose and through the eye on each side of the head. Mature males can sometimes be recognized by an elongation of the lower half of the caudal fin. The Orchid Dottyback is native to the Red Sea and limited collection from this area makes it increasingly difficult to come by wild collected fish. Fortunately, we have included this species in our breeding program and captive bred Orchid Dottybacks are readily available from Sea & Reef Aquaculture.

Dottybacks are a group of small, colorful basslet-like fish that inhabit the crevices and small caves of the coral reef.  Dottybacks can be kept in smaller aquariums, although larger tanks with plenty of live rock are preferable. They are territorial and will defend the area they have claimed as home quite aggressively.

Dottybacks vary species by species in aggressiveness, and care should be taken when deciding which to introduce to an aquarium community.  Dottybacks are easy to feed, and frozen foods such as Mysis shrimp or Brine shrimp are readily accepted. They are also known to feed on small bristle worms, and have been introduced to tanks to help control excessive bristle worm populations.

The family of Dottybacks are well known for their elusive nature. These fish tend to stay within their crevice or cave until it is time to feed. Their color is usually quite dramatic and they are capable of changing their sex.