Common name: Golden dottyback

Scientific name: Pseudochromis fuscus Müller & Troschel, 1849

General information

The Dusky Dottyback, scientifically known as Pseudochromis fuscus, is a small and vibrant fish that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is known for its hardiness and adaptability, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. The Dusky Dottyback has a sleek, elongated body with a uniform dark brown to purple coloration that can add a touch of elegance to any aquarium.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Hardy, but can be territorial
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
Social
Pair Best kept in pairs or alone
Reefsafe
Yes May nip at small inverts
Aggression
Semi aggresive Aggressive towards smaller fish
Captive bred
Yes Available as captive-bred

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
    Golden dottyback
    Pseudochromis fuscus Müller & Troschel, 1849
  8. Synonyms
    Onar nebulosum De Vis, 1885
    Pseudochromis adustus Müller & Troschel, 1849
    Pseudochromis aureus Seale, 1910
    Pseudochromis wildii Ogilby, 1908
    Pseudochromis xanthochir Bleeker, 1855

Care

Dusky Dottybacks are relatively easy to care for. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. These fish are carnivorous and require a diet rich in meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. They can be territorial, so it's important to introduce them to the aquarium last to minimize aggression towards other tank mates.

Reproduction

In the wild, Dusky Dottybacks are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male if no male is present. In the aquarium, breeding can be challenging, but with a well-maintained environment and a pair of fish, it is possible to observe spawning behavior. The male will guard the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Pseudochromis fuscus is native to the Indo-Pacific region, where it is commonly found in coral reefs and rocky outcrops. They prefer areas with abundant hiding places and can be found at various depths, often between 1 to 30 meters.