Orchid Dottyback

The Orchid Dottyback is a striking purple dottyback that is one of the most popular species in the group. Despite their small size of 2.5-3 inches, they are aggressive and territorial fish that can dominate areas of the reef tank. Native to the Red Sea, they are hardy and beautiful but require careful tank mate selection. They will eat small ornamental shrimp and can bully peaceful fish. Best kept with robust, larger fish or in species-only setups. Their brilliant purple color is attractive but comes with attitude.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Orchid Dottybacks need caves and careful community planning.

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 and territorial:

• Territorial: Defend cave area
• Aggressive: To similar fish
• Shrimp predators: Will eat small shrimp
• Dominant: Despite small size

Compatible: Robust fish only Avoid: Small fish, shrimp, other dottybacks

Color

• Brilliant purple: Distinctive color
• Magenta to violet: Range of purple

Tips

• One per tank
• Species tank or robust fish only
• Will eat shrimp
• Beautiful but aggressive