Common name: Queensland dottyback

General information

The Queensland Dottyback, Ogilbyina queenslandiae, is a vibrant and captivating species of fish that is well-regarded in the reefkeeping hobby. This species is known for its striking coloration, typically exhibiting a vivid purple anterior and a bright yellow posterior, which can add a splash of color to any marine aquarium.

Queensland Dottybacks are part of the Pseudochromidae family, which are known for their bold personalities and territorial nature. Despite their small size, they can be quite assertive, especially towards other similarly sized fish or those with similar color patterns.

Care

When caring for Queensland Dottybacks, it is important to provide them with a well-structured aquarium that includes plenty of rockwork and hiding places to mimic their natural habitat. They can be kept in smaller aquariums, but their territorial behavior should be considered when adding other fish. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Queensland Dottybacks are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male if the dominant male is removed. In the aquarium, breeding can occur if a compatible pair is established. They typically spawn in a cave or crevice, and the male will guard the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Ogilbyina queenslandiae is native to the Western Pacific, particularly around the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, Australia. They are typically found in reef environments, often in and around crevices and rubble slopes.

Their natural depth range is from shallow waters to depths of around 30 meters, where they can be seen darting in and out of the reef structure, always on the lookout for both predators and prey.