Common name: Striped dottyback

General information

The Sankey's Dottyback, Pseudochromis sankeyi, is a small and strikingly patterned marine fish that is popular among aquarists for its bold personality and ease of care. This species is known for its distinctive black and white striped pattern, which provides excellent camouflage among the rocks and corals of its natural habitat.

Care

Sankey's Dottybacks are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced hobbyists. 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, including frozen mysis shrimp and brine shrimp.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Sankey's Dottybacks can be bred with some effort. They are hermaphroditic, with the ability to change sex, typically from female to male. Breeding pairs will lay eggs in a secure cave or crevice, and the male will guard and tend to the eggs until they hatch.

Habitat

Sankey's Dottybacks are found in the Western Pacific, specifically around the Philippines and Indonesia. They prefer reef environments with abundant live rock formations, where they can hide and hunt for small invertebrates. In the wild, they are typically found at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 40 meters.