Common name: White-nosed dottyback

Scientific name: Pseudochromis leucorhynchus Lubbock, 1977

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

  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
    White-nosed dottyback
    Pseudochromis 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.