Common name: Resplendent goldie

General information

The Royal Dottyback, scientifically known as Pseudanthias pulcherrimus, is a vibrant and colorful addition to any reef aquarium. This species is part of the Anthiinae subfamily, which is known for its brightly colored members. The males exhibit a stunning array of colors, typically with a pink or purple anterior and a yellow or orange posterior, while females tend to be less colorful.

These fish are relatively small, reaching up to 7 centimeters in length, and are known for their active swimming behavior. They are often found in groups in the wild, where they inhabit coral-rich areas and steep reef slopes.

Care

Royal Dottybacks are moderately easy to care for but can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics or similar-looking fish. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and a stable environment. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, supplemented with high-quality marine pellets, will help maintain their vibrant colors and health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Pseudanthias pulcherrimus forms harems consisting of a single dominant male and several females. They are known to be protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning females have the ability to turn into males if the dominant male is lost. Breeding in captivity is challenging due to their complex social structure and the need for precise water conditions.

Habitat

The Royal Dottyback is native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Sea. They are typically found at depths ranging from 25 to 60 meters, where they associate with coral outcrops and overhangs on reef slopes.