Saltwater Aquarium Guide: Bicolor Dottyback (Pictichromis diadema)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Maximum Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: Bicolor Dottyback (Pictichromis diadema)

The Bicolor Dottyback, or Pictichromis diadema, is popular for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about caring for this species in your aquarium.

Habitat:

The Bicolor Dottyback is native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically found in the reefs of the Maldives, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It prefers areas with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves and crevices.

Reef Safe:

The Bicolor Dottyback is considered reef safe, meaning it can be kept in a reef aquarium without causing harm to corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when introducing it to smaller, more peaceful fish species.

Size:

The Bicolor Dottyback can grow up to 3 inches long, making it a relatively small fish suitable for smaller aquariums.

Temperament:

This species is semi-aggressive and territorial. It may exhibit aggressive behavior towards other fish of similar size or appearance. Plenty of hiding spots and territories within the aquarium can help alleviate aggression.

Sexual Dimorphism:

The Bicolor Dottyback does not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, making it difficult to differentiate between males and females visually.

Lifespan:

With proper care, the Bicolor Dottyback can live in captivity for up to 5 years.

Diet in Aquariums:

The Bicolor Dottyback is a carnivorous species and should be fed a varied diet of high-quality frozen or live meaty foods. This can include brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

When setting up the aquarium for the Bicolor Dottyback, provide plenty of hiding spots and caves using live rock or artificial structures. This will help mimic its natural habitat and establish territories for the fish.

Captive Bred Availability:

The Bicolor Dottyback is available as captive-bred specimens in the aquarium trade. Captive-bred individuals are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions compared to wild-caught specimens.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals:

The Bicolor Dottyback can be kept with various tankmates, including other semi-aggressive fish species. However, caution should be exercised when introducing it to smaller, more peaceful fish as it may exhibit aggression towards them. As for invertebrates and corals, the Bicolor Dottyback is considered reef-safe and should not threaten them.

5 Recommended Tankmates:

• 1. Royal Gramma (Gramma loreto): The Royal Gramma is a peaceful fish that can coexist with the Bicolor Dottyback due to its different coloration and peaceful nature.
• 2. Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica): The Firefish Goby is a peaceful and active fish that can add movement and color to the aquarium without posing a threat to the Bicolor Dottyback.
• 3. Clownfish (Amphiprion spp.): Clownfish are known for their symbiotic relationship with anemones and can coexist with the Bicolor Dottyback as they inhabit different aquarium areas.
• 4. Fire Shrimp (Lysmata spp.): Fire shrimp are peaceful invertebrates that can help keep the aquarium clean and provide interesting interactions with the Bicolor Dottyback.
• 5. Mushroom Corals (Actinodiscus spp.): Mushroom corals are hardy and can add color and texture to the aquarium without being threatened by the Bicolor Dottyback.

Other Common Names:

The Bicolor Dottyback is also known as the Diadem Dottyback or the Diadem Pseudochromis.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com:

Reefs4Less.com is a reputable online retailer specializing in saltwater aquarium supplies. They offer a wide selection of high-quality fish, corals, and invertebrates, including the Bicolor Dottyback. With their competitive prices and excellent customer service, Reefs4Less.com is a trusted choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts.

Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the ideal tank size for a Bicolor Dottyback?

A: The minimum tank size recommended for a Bicolor Dottyback is 30 gallons. Providing ample swimming space and hiding spots is essential for their well-being.

Q: Can Bicolor Dottybacks be kept in a community aquarium?

A: Bicolor Dottybacks can be kept in a community aquarium with other semi-aggressive fish species. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to smaller, more peaceful fish as they may exhibit aggression towards them.

Q: How often should I feed my Bicolor Dottyback?

A: It is recommended to feed your Bicolor Dottyback small amounts of food multiple times a day. This species has a high metabolism and benefits from frequent feedings.

Q: Can Bicolor Dottybacks be kept with anemones?

A: Bicolor Dottybacks can be kept with anemones. However, ensuring that the anemone species is suitable for aquarium conditions and that the Bicolor Dottyback does not threaten it is important.

Q: Are Bicolor Dottybacks prone to any specific diseases?

A: Bicolor Dottybacks are generally hardy and not prone to specific diseases. However, like all fish, they can be susceptible to common aquarium ailments such as ich or marine velvet. Proper quarantine procedures and a healthy environment can help prevent these diseases.