Indigo Dottyback Fish

The Indigo Pseudochromis, also known as the Orchid Dottyback or Fridman's Dottyback, is a captivating and popular choice for reef aquariums due to its vibrant purple coloration and relatively peaceful nature. Its slender body is a striking, uniform indigo or orchid purple, often with a darker stripe running from the eye to the gill cover.

A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a single Indigo Pseudochromis, with larger tanks needed for housing multiple individuals or in a community setting. Provide ample live rock with plenty of crevices and caves for hiding and establishing territories. While generally considered reef-safe, they may occasionally nip at very small, ornamental shrimp.

In the wild, the Indigo Pseudochromis is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning they are born female and can change to male. In the aquarium, it is difficult to distinguish between sexes visually. Breeding in captivity is possible but requires specific conditions and is not commonly achieved by hobbyists.

The Indigo Pseudochromis is a carnivorous fish and readily accepts a varied diet of meaty foods. Offer a mix of high-quality marine flake and pellet foods, as well as frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other small crustaceans. Feed small amounts multiple times a day. They typically reach a maximum size of around 3 inches in the aquarium.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Pseudochromis fridmani
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 3"
• Recommended Tank Size: 30 gallons