Cherry Dottyback

Care

A fish that is seldom seen in the trade, the Cherry Dottyback was first encountered as an accidental by-catch when fishing for other ornamental species, and was only formally described in 2004. Few details are known about the exact habitat of this elusive dottyback, but like other Pseudochromids, it is likely to inhabit coral crevices and overhangs on the reef. Although this fish is reported to be less belligerent than some members of the same family, it is still fairly feisty and should not be kept alongside placid fish such as dartfish, firefish, gobies, grammas, small wrasses and the like. They are best kept in a moderately aggressive reef community with fish that are not easily bullied. If the aquarium is very spacious, and has plenty of visual barriers amongst the décor, more than one specimen may be kept together if of the same size and introduced simultaneously. However, if the system is on the smaller side, keep just the one to avoid territorial issues. Most problems with aggression tend occur in smaller aquaria, as given sufficient space these fish will usually mind their own business. It is essential that the tank has tight fitting coverslides, as Cherry Dottybacks are expert jumpers.

Feeding

Offer a variety of small meaty foods such as Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, plankton, finely shaved krill/mussel/cockle/clam etc. Some specimens will take prepared foods such as marine flake and pellets. Feed small amounts several times per day.

Breeding

This species has not been bred in the home aquarium.