Indigo Dottyback (Captive Bred)

Also known as the Indigo Pseudochromis

The Indigo Dottyback is a stunning captive-bred marine fish featuring intense electric blue to violet coloration that rivals any fish in the hobby. This hardy, vibrant species is bred exclusively in captivity, making them more adaptable and easier to care for than wild-caught specimens. While they possess the characteristic dottyback temperament—bold, territorial, and sometimes aggressive—their manageable size and spectacular color make them popular choices for reef aquariums. Captive-bred Indigo Dottybacks are significantly hardier than wild dottybacks, readily accept all foods, and display consistent, brilliant coloration.

Key Features

Scientific Name: Pseudochromis fridmani (captive-bred color morph)
Common Names: Indigo Dottyback, Indigo Pseudochromis
Adult Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–8 cm)
Lifespan: 5–7+ years with proper care
Temperament: Semi-aggressive to aggressive; territorial, especially in smaller tanks
Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe – will not harm corals or most invertebrates
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (larger tanks reduce aggression)
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate – hardy but can be aggressive

Habitat & Tank Requirements

Tank Environment:

• Live rock with caves and crevices for territory establishment
• Peaceful to moderately active water flow
• Standard reef or FOWLR aquarium lighting
• Established aquarium preferred (2+ months)

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 specific gravity
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Diet & Feeding

Recommended Foods:

• Frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp (primary diet)
• High-quality carnivore pellets
• Finely chopped seafood, krill

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed 1–2 times daily
• Small portions consumed in 2–3 minutes
• Captive-bred specimens accept all foods immediately

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:

• Bold, confident, and territorial
• Can be aggressive toward smaller, peaceful fish
• May harass similarly shaped or sized fish
• Less aggressive when added last to established community
• Personality mellows somewhat in larger tanks (75+ gallons)

Tank Mates:

• Compatible with: Larger tangs, clownfish, larger wrasses, angelfish, anthias, chromis
• Caution with: Small gobies, dartfish, firefish, blennies, other dottybacks, basslets
• Avoid: Small peaceful fish, other dottybacks, multiple dottybacks in tanks under 100 gallons

Reef Compatibility:

• Completely reef-safe with corals
• May eat small ornamental shrimp and tiny crustaceans
• Safe with larger shrimp (Cleaner, Peppermint shrimp)

Acclimation & Health

Initial Acclimation:

• Drip acclimation over 45–60 minutes
• Dim lights during introduction
• Add as one of the last fish to reduce aggression

Health Considerations:

• Extremely hardy, especially captive-bred specimens
• Resistant to most common diseases
• Quarantine 2–3 weeks recommended
• Watch for aggression toward tankmates

Signs of Health:

• Vibrant electric blue to indigo coloration
• Active, confident swimming
• Immediate feeding response
• Clear eyes and intact fins

Color & Special Features

Coloration:

• Intense electric blue to deep indigo-violet throughout body
• Uniform coloration with slight purple iridescence
• Fins match body color
• Color intensity rivals wild-caught specimens

Captive-Bred Advantages:

• Superior hardiness and disease resistance
• Already adapted to aquarium foods and conditions
• More vibrant, consistent coloration than wild fish
• No impact on wild reef populations
• Better survival rates and easier acclimation

Special Considerations

Aggression Management:

• Add dottyback last to reduce territorial behavior
• Provide multiple caves to minimize conflict
• Larger tanks (50+ gallons) significantly reduce aggression
• May bully smaller, passive fish
• Generally ignores larger, more assertive tankmates

Why Choose Captive-Bred: Captive-bred Indigo Dottybacks offer superior hardiness, consistent coloration, immediate acceptance of all foods, and no wild collection impact. They’re healthier, less stressed, and significantly easier to maintain than wild-caught alternatives, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists seeking brilliant color in a small, hardy package.