Springeri Dottyback
Pseudochromis springeri
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity |
|---|
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Healthy, stable animals from vetted suppliers — inspected before packing, shipped overnight. Decades of experience built this model so we can deliver premium livestock at 30%+ less than you'd pay elsewhere.
| Care Level | Easy |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Functional Benefit | Pest Control |
| Diet Type | Carnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 20 gallons |
| Max Size | 2 inches |
| Temperature | 76–82°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Springeri Dottyback is often kept as a small “pest patrol” fish that may pick at nuisance bristleworms while still fitting naturally into reef rockwork. It has a dark blue to black body with electric-blue striping on the face and fins, and it’s native to the Red Sea.
What You’ll Observe:
- Quick, controlled swims between caves and ledges, with a favorite hiding spot it returns to often
- Short “patrol loops” around the same sections of rock as it learns your tank’s layout
- A strong interest in crevices and shaded pockets, especially where small food collects
- Confident feeding at the front once it recognizes a routine
Provide plenty of live rock with multiple bolt-holes so it can settle into a chosen territory without crowding other fish. Offer small meaty foods (like mysis, finely chopped seafood, and quality frozen blends) on a steady schedule so it stays engaged and easy to feed. Does best when given clear space from other similarly shaped, rock-dwelling fish.
Will it bother ornamental shrimp?
Many hobbyists report mixed results; in some tanks it ignores shrimp, while in others it may chase or attack smaller shrimp. If shrimp are a priority, plan rockwork with multiple shrimp-safe “escape routes” and feed the dottyback consistently.
Why does it disappear for days at a time?
It’s common for dottybacks to claim a tight crevice and stay out of sight while they map the tank and establish a home base. Once it’s comfortable, most owners see it out more during feeding times and routine daylight hours.
Can I keep two Springeri Dottybacks together?
Pairs can work best when introduced at the same time and given lots of structure to break up sight lines. In many home tanks, a single specimen is the most straightforward long-term setup.
Do they accept pellets and frozen foods easily?
Most adapt well to frozen meaty foods, and many will take small pellets once they associate you with feeding. Start with smaller particle sizes and feed in the same spot to build a predictable routine.
Do I need a lid?
A tight-fitting lid or mesh top is a good idea, especially in the first few weeks when the fish is still settling in and exploring the tank’s boundaries.
Our selection process means you get robust, well-adjusted specimens that settle in quickly.
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