Common name: Rose island dottyback

Scientific name: Pseudoplesiops rosae Schultz, 1943

General information

The Rose Dottyback, Pseudoplesiops rosae, is a small and colorful fish that is a popular choice for reef aquariums. This species is known for its vibrant pink to purple coloration and peaceful demeanor, making it a visually appealing addition to a community tank. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Rose Dottyback is a hardy species that can adapt well to life in captivity.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.022 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 Prefers caves and overhangs
Diet
Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
Social
Solo Can be territorial with conspecifics
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May be aggressive to small 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
    Pseudoplesiops
  7. Species
    Rose island dottyback
    Pseudoplesiops rosae Schultz, 1943
  8. Synonyms
    Pseudochromis rosae (Schultz, 1943)

Care

Rose Dottybacks are relatively easy to care for, which makes them suitable for both beginner and advanced 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.

Reproduction

In the wild, Rose Dottybacks are secretive spawners, laying their eggs in crevices within the reef. In captivity, they can be bred with careful attention to their environment and diet. The eggs are typically guarded by the male until they hatch.

Habitat

Rose Dottybacks are found in the coral reefs of the Western Pacific, often in association with rubble and live rock where they can find shelter. They are usually seen at depths ranging from shallow waters to deeper reef slopes.