About Neon Dottyback

The Neon Dottyback is a bright yellow to orange dottyback with stunning neon coloration. Like other dottybacks, they are small but aggressive fish that can be problematic in peaceful community tanks. Native to the Indian Ocean, they are hardy and striking but have the same territorial behavior as other dottybacks. They need caves, will eat small shrimp, and should be kept with robust tank mates or alone. Their bright yellow color makes them attractive, but their aggression requires experienced handling.

Care Guide

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Neon Dottybacks need the same setup as other dottybacks.

Essential Setup:

  • 30+ gallons
  • Live rock with caves
  • Temperature 72-78°F

Water Quality

  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-25.5°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  • Nitrate: <20 ppm

Feeding

Carnivores:

  • Frozen Mysis shrimp
  • Frozen brine shrimp
  • Marine pellets

Behavior

Aggressive like other dottybacks:

  • Territorial: Defend chosen area
  • Aggressive: Despite small size
  • Shrimp predators: Eat ornamental shrimp

Compatible: Robust fish only Avoid: Small fish, shrimp, similar species

Color

  • Neon yellow: To orange
  • Bright: Highly visible
  • Attractive: But aggressive

Tips

  • One per tank
  • Robust tank mates only
  • Will eat shrimp
  • Bright color, aggressive personality

Compatible Tank Mates

🐠 Robust fish only