Stripe-Tail Dottyback
Pseudochromis caudalis
| Stock | Variations | Price | Quantity |
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| Care Level | Easy |
|---|---|
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Functional Benefit | Ornamental Only |
| Diet Type | Carnivore |
| Mininum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Max Size | 4 inches |
| Temperature | 72–78°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.022–1.025 |
The Stripe-Tail Dottyback (Pseudochromis caudalis) is an Indian Ocean dottyback known for its streamlined profile and tail-focused striping that stands out when it turns through the rockwork. In reef tanks it spends most of its time weaving between caves and ledges, then pausing at the entrance of a favorite hideout to watch activity in the open.
What You’ll Observe:
- Short, quick swims between rock crevices with frequent stops to hover at a “home” opening
- A consistent patrol route along the same few rocks once it settles in
- Strong awareness of movement outside the aquarium, often facing out from its perch
- Most active at feeding time, darting out and returning to the same shelter afterward
To do well with this species, provide a reef structure with several tight caves and shaded pockets so it can choose a primary retreat. Offer small meaty foods (like mysis, enriched brine, and finely chopped seafood) on a steady schedule so it learns where meals appear. In mixed communities, it does best when given clear rockwork zones and introduced with a calm, structured acclimation routine.
Is it normal for a dottyback to “vanish” for a day or two after introduction?
Yes—many will stay deep in rockwork (or even slip into rear filtration/overflow areas) while they map out a safe route, then resume regular appearances.
Why does it seem to focus on one specific tankmate instead of bothering everyone?
Dottybacks often key in on fish with similar body shape and similar hiding habits; once territories are clear, the day-to-day interactions usually become more predictable.
Do acclimation boxes actually help when adding a dottyback to an established tank?
Often, yes—giving several days of visible, separated time can reduce the “surprise factor” and helps the dottyback identify shelters before full release.
Will it pick a specific sleeping spot?
Commonly it will choose one crevice or shell-like nook and return to it each night, and it may switch spots if you significantly change the rockwork.
How do I get it eating confidently if it ignores pellets at first?
Start with the same frozen foods it already recognizes, then gradually mix in small sinking pellets once it’s consistently coming out at feeding time.
Each fish is checked for strong appetite and activity before we approve it for your tank.
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