Blue Barred Dottyback

The Blue Bar Dottyback, scientifically known as the Surge Dottyback (Pseudochromis cyanotaenia), is a vibrant fish species that exhibits sexual dimorphism – the males are more strikingly colored than the females. The male Surge Dottyback displays a dark blue hue with light blue bars running along its sides. The front half of its body is yellow with a yellow stripe running along its back. On the other hand, the female Dottyback is grey and has a yellow or orange tail. Dottybacks are a popular and durable fish species that vary in size, temperament, and coloration. Most species, including the commonly used term Dottyback, come from the Pseudochromis genus. Other smaller genuses like Pictichromis contain the well-known Strawberry Dottyback (P. porphyrea), Diadema Dottyback (P. diadema), and Bicolor Dottyback (P. paccagnallae). Once acclimated to the home aquarium, most species of Dottybacks will accept frozen foods like brine shrimp and krill. Larger species can consume larger meaty items like scallop pieces, shrimp, clams, and similar food items. However, smaller species should be fed with brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and other small foods. To supplement their diet and add variety, you can add flake or pellet food after the fish has become established in the aquarium. Dottybacks are territorial fish and should only be kept singly in a tank. While they get along with other types of fish, their home “territory” should not be disturbed by other fish. Some species can become large and aggressive, requiring ample hiding spaces to feel comfortable. Dottybacks are ideal for reef aquariums, but they may attempt to consume small ornamental shrimp like Sexy Shrimp (Thor sp.) and Anemone Shrimp (Periclimenes sp.). Some Dottybacks, particularly those from the Pseudochromis genus, are highly sought after for their inclination to eat nuisance Bristleworms. They are reef safe.