Dottybacks

Dottybacks, belonging to the family Pseudochromidae, are a fascinating group of small, colorful fish that are popular in the reefkeeping hobby. These fish are known for their vibrant colors and bold personalities, making them a striking addition to any saltwater aquarium. They are relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of tank conditions, which makes them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Dottybacks are typically small, with most species reaching only about 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) in length, making them ideal for smaller tanks or as part of a larger community setup.

One of the most appealing aspects of Dottybacks is their wide range of colors and patterns. Species such as the Pictichromis paccagnellae and the Pseudochromis fridmani are particularly popular for their striking hues. However, potential keepers should be aware that Dottybacks can be territorial and sometimes aggressive, especially towards other small fish and invertebrates. Providing plenty of hiding spots and establishing clear territories within the tank can help mitigate aggressive behaviors.

Dottybacks are carnivorous and thrive on a diet of high-quality frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. They may also accept high-quality pellet and flake foods. Maintaining excellent water quality and stable tank conditions is crucial for their health and well-being. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters will help keep these vibrant fish in top condition.

In summary, Dottybacks are a colorful and dynamic choice for saltwater aquariums, offering both visual appeal and interesting behaviors. With proper care and attention to their territorial nature, they can be a rewarding addition to your marine setup.

1. 
   Common name: Black striped dampier

   Scientific name: Labracinus cyclophthalmus
2. Common name: Lined dottyback

   Scientific name: Labracinus lineatus
3. Common name: Midnight dottyback

   Scientific name: Manonichthys paranox
4. Common name: Longfin dottyback

   Scientific name: Manonichthys polynemus
5. 
   Common name: Splendid dottyback

   Scientific name: Manonichthys splendens
6. Common name: Queensland dottyback

   Scientific name: Ogilbyina queenslandiae
7. Common name: Cave Damsel

   Scientific name: Ogilbyina salvati
8. 
   Common name: Diadem dottyback

   Scientific name: Pictichromis diadema
9. 
   Common name: Royal dottyback

   Scientific name: Pictichromis paccagnellae
10. 
    Common name: Magenta dottyback

    Scientific name: Pictichromis porphyrea
11. 
    Common name: Orange dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis aldabraensis
12. Common name: Double-striped dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis bitaeniatus
13. Common name: Stripe-tailed dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis caudalis
14. Common name: Yellow-breasted dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis coccinicauda
15. Common name: Surge dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis cyanotaenia
16. 
    Common name: Orchid Dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis dilectus
17. Common name: Forktail dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis dixurus
18. Common name: Dutoiti

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis dutoiti
19. 
    Common name: Floppy-tail dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis elongatus
20. Common name: Firetail dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis flammicauda
21. 
    Common name: Sunrise dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis flavivertex
22. 
    Common name: Orchid dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis fridmani
23. Common name: Golden dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis fuscus
24. Common name: Shelf dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis howsoni
25. Common name: Spot-tailed dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis jamesi
26. Common name: White-nosed dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis leucorhynchus
27. Common name: Yellowtail dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis linda
28. 
    Common name: Orange dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis luteus
29. Common name: Marshall Is. dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis marshallensis
30. Common name: Dark dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis melas
31. 
    Common name: Lyretail dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis moorei
32. Common name: Natal dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis natalensis
33. 
    Common name: Blackstripe dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis nigrovittatus
34. Common name: Olive dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis olivaceus
35. Common name: Oman Pseudochromis

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis omanensis
36. Common name: Gulf dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis persicus
37. 
    Common name: Blackstripe dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis perspicillatus
38. Common name: Pale dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis pesi
39. 
    Common name: Painted dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis pictus
40. Common name: Pyle's dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis pylei
41. 
    Common name: Striped dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis sankeyi
42. 
    Common name: Blue-striped dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis springeri
43. 
    Common name: Lyretail dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis steenei
44. Common name: Striated dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudochromis striatus
45. Common name: Collared dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudoplesiops collare
46. Common name: Bearded dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudoplesiops revellei
47. Common name: Rose island dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudoplesiops rosae
48. Common name: Ring-eyed dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudoplesiops typus
49. Common name: Fleckfin dottyback

    Scientific name: Pseudoplesiops wassi