Common name: White-nosed dottyback
General information
The Leucorhynchus Pseudochromis, commonly known as the White-snouted Dottyback, is a small and vibrant fish that adds a splash of color to any saltwater aquarium. This species is part of the Pseudochromidae family, known for their bright colors and elongated bodies. The White-snouted Dottyback is particularly noted for its striking coloration, with a vivid purple body and a distinctive white snout.
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 Prefers caves and overhangs
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Pairs are territorial
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, may bully smaller fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDottybacksPseudochromidae
- GenusDottybacksPseudochromis
- SpeciesWhite-nosed dottybackPseudochromis leucorhynchus Lubbock, 1977
Care
White-snouted Dottybacks are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. These fish are carnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. It's important to maintain high water quality and stable parameters to keep them healthy.
Reproduction
In the aquarium, White-snouted Dottybacks can breed if provided with the right conditions. They are known to be secretive spawners, often laying their eggs in hidden crevices within the live rock. The male typically guards the eggs until they hatch. Breeding these fish in captivity can be challenging but rewarding for dedicated hobbyists.
Habitat
Pseudochromis leucorhynchus is native to the Western Pacific, where it is found in reef environments. They prefer areas with abundant coral and rock formations that provide shelter and hunting grounds. In the wild, they are often observed at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters.