| Care Level | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Carnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 20 gallons |
| Max Size | 2 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
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| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Out of Stock | 1.25 - 2.25" - Indo-Pacific |
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The Ring Eyed Dottyback (also seen as the “Hidden Basslet”) is a small reef-associated fish that spends much of its time close to rockwork and shaded ledges. Its coloration can vary from pale yellow to red, often with a distinct ringed-eye look that stands out in a nano-to-medium reef setting.
What You’ll Observe:
- Short, quick dashes between caves, overhangs, and crevices as it patrols a favorite section of rock
- Regular “peek out” behavior—hovering at a cave entrance, then backing in when activity increases
- A focused feeding response once it learns where food enters the tank (often from the same corner or flow path)
- Most visible during calmer periods of the day, especially once it has a settled hiding route
To succeed, provide a rockscape with multiple tight retreats so it can choose a home base and still move through the structure. Offer small meaty foods (frozen or prepared carnivore options) in consistent portions so it can feed without needing long open-water swims. Like many dottybacks, it does best when given clear personal space within the aquascape.
How long is it normal for a new Ring Eyed Dottyback to stay out of sight?
Many dottyback-type fish wedge into rockwork at first; it’s common for visibility to improve as it memorizes safe routes through the scape.
Why does it “hover at the cave mouth” instead of swimming in the open?
This is a common settle-in pattern for rock-oriented basslets/dottybacks—staying close to cover while still watching for food and tank activity.
What’s a good way to confirm it’s eating if I rarely see it at feeding time?
Some keepers have better luck feeding with the room lights dimmer and staying still at a distance so the fish feels comfortable coming out.
Will it pick one “home cave,” or move around the tank?
Many dottybacks establish a primary retreat and then make short loops to nearby crevices, especially if the rockwork has connected tunnels and overhangs.
Is it normal for it to become more visible weeks later than day one?
Yes—dottybacks commonly show a gradual increase in daytime appearances as they learn the tank’s rhythm and feeding schedule.
Our selection process means you get robust, well-adjusted specimens that settle in quickly.
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