Allen's Dottyback (Manonichthys alleni)

Fish in the family Plesiopidae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Quick facts

Scientific nameManonichthys alleni

FamilyPlesiopidae

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size3.5 in

Minimum tank size30 gallons

Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.02-1.025

Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Allen's Dottyback is a vibrant, elongated fish with a deep magenta to purple-red coloration on the body and bright yellow-orange stripes running vertically along the head and gill covers. The dorsal and anal fins are outlined in yellow.

Diet and feeding

Feed small frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and high-quality pellets designed for small carnivorous fish. Offer a varied diet 2–3 times daily to maintain coloration and health.

Difficulty and care for the Allen's Dottyback

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Hole-in-the-Head Disease, Columnaris

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and surrounding coral reef regions.

Log Allen's Dottyback in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Allen's Dottyback alongside everything else in your reef.

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