Reeflings

Common name: Sunrise dottyback

Scientific name: Pseudochromis flavivertex Rüppell, 1835
A Yellowback Dottyback (Pseudochromis flavivertex) in the Red Sea, EgyptPseudochromis flavivertex
Pseudochromis flavivertex, the sunrise dottyback, is a species of ray-finned fish from the Western Indian Ocean which is a member of the family Pseudochromidae.Pseudochromis flavivertex, the sunrise dottyback, is a species of ray-finned fish from the Western Indian Ocean which is a member of the family Pseudochromidae.

General information

The Sunrise Dottyback, scientifically known as Pseudochromis flavivertex, is a vibrant and captivating species popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is part of the Pseudochromidae family, known for their bright colors and dynamic personalities. The Sunrise Dottyback is particularly noted for its striking yellow to orange head, which gradually blends into a purple or blue body, creating a beautiful sunrise-like gradient effect.

Native to the Red Sea, these fish are relatively small, reaching about 3 inches in length, making them suitable for a variety of tank sizes. They are also known for their territorial nature, especially towards conspecifics or similar-sized fish.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Easy Adaptable to aquarium life.
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp.
Social
Pair Pairs are harmonious.
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May be territorial.
Captive bred
Yes Bred in home aquariums.
Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
ExtinctThreatenedLeastConcern

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Dottybacks
    Pseudochromidae
  6. Genus
    Dottybacks
    Pseudochromis
  7. Species
    Sunrise dottyback
    Pseudochromis flavivertex Rüppell, 1835

Care

Sunrise Dottybacks are hardy and adaptable, making them a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces to mimic their natural habitat. These fish are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

While generally peaceful, they can become aggressive towards other fish of similar size or temperament, so it's important to carefully consider tankmates and introduce the Sunrise Dottyback last to the community.

Reproduction

In the aquarium setting, Sunrise Dottybacks can be bred with careful attention to their environment. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males if needed, usually in the absence of other males. Breeding pairs will lay eggs in a secure crevice, and the male will guard and tend to the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Sunrise Dottyback is the coral-rich environments of the Red Sea. They are often found in and around crevices and overhangs on the reef, where they can dart in and out to hunt for food or evade predators. In the home aquarium, replicating this environment with ample live rock and crevices will help these fish feel secure and display natural behaviors.