Common name: Orange dottyback

Scientific name: Pseudochromis luteus Aoyagi, 1943
Elongate Orange Dottyback - (Pseudochromis elongatus)Elongate Orange Dottyback - (Pseudochromis elongatus)
Elongate Orange Dottyback - (Pseudochromis elongatus)Orange Elongate Dottyback - (Pseudochromis elongatus)

General information

The Yellow Dottyback, scientifically known as Pseudochromis luteus, 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 elongated bodies. The Yellow Dottyback is particularly noted for its striking yellow hue, which can add a splash of color to any marine 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
    Orange dottyback
    Pseudochromis luteus Aoyagi, 1943

Care

Yellow Dottybacks are relatively hardy and can adapt to a variety of tank conditions, making them suitable 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 diet consisting of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Yellow Dottybacks can be bred with careful attention to their environment. They are known to be territorial during breeding, so providing ample space and hiding places is crucial. The male will guard the eggs until they hatch, which typically occurs after a week or so.

Habitat

Pseudochromis luteus is native to the reefs of the Western Pacific, where they are found in reef crevices and amongst rubble. They prefer areas with abundant coral growth and are often observed darting in and out of the reef structure.