Magenta Dottyback

The magenta dottyback is a small reef fish with a solid magenta-purple color from head to tail. It is distinguished from the similarly colored orchid dottyback (Pseudochromis fridmani) by the absence of a dark line running through the eye and by being noticeably more aggressive. It is hardy and easy to feed; despite its small size, however, it defends its lair fiercely and hunts small ornamental shrimp.

• At least 75 liters.
• Salinity specific gravity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–27°C.
• Reef-safe; it leaves corals alone, but may hunt small ornamental shrimp.
• A rock structure with plenty of caves and holes; it should be added after peaceful fish.

Carnivorous. Offer frozen mysis, brine shrimp, krill and granules; twice a day.

It constantly chases fish of similar size and shape, especially other dottybacks and grammas. It is kept as a single specimen; a second individual can only be tried as a mated pair and in a very large aquarium.

Good companions: Tangs, chromis, clownfish (with enough volume), large blennies, cleaner shrimp.

Avoid: Other dottybacks, royal gramma, firefish, small gobies, small ornamental shrimp.