Common name: Yellowtail dottyback

Scientific name: Pseudochromis linda Randall & Stanaland, 1989

General information

Linda's Dottyback, scientifically known as Pseudochromis linda, is a vibrant and captivating species popular among marine aquarists. This species is part of the Pseudochromidae family, known for their bright colors and elongated bodies. Linda's Dottyback boasts a striking purple hue with a sleek body shape, making it a standout addition to any reef 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
8 cm (3″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Adaptable, but needs hiding spots
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis, brine shrimp
Social
Pair Can be kept in pairs
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May be territorial
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
    Yellowtail dottyback
    Pseudochromis linda Randall & Stanaland, 1989

Care

Linda's Dottyback is a hardy species that adapts well to life in captivity. They require an aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces to feel secure. A peaceful to moderately aggressive fish, they can become territorial, so it's important to introduce them to the tank last to minimize conflict. They thrive on a varied diet of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.

Reproduction

In the home aquarium, Linda's Dottyback 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. Breeding pairs will lay eggs in a secure cave or crevice, and the male will guard the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Linda's Dottyback is native to the Red Sea and the Western Indian Ocean. They are typically found in coral-rich areas and rocky outcrops where they can dart in and out of crevices to hunt for food and avoid predators. In the wild, they inhabit depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters deep.