Cole's Dottyback (Pseudochromis colei)

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

Quick facts

Scientific namePseudochromis colei

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 scheduleFeed 2-3 times daily

Appearance

Cole's Dottyback is a slender, elongated fish with brilliant purple-blue coloration on the head and anterior body, transitioning to deep blue or violet posteriorly. It has a small mouth, continuous dorsal fin, and reaches about 3.5 inches at maturity.

Diet and feeding

Marine copepods, small crustaceans, marine algae, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp (artemia)

Difficulty and care for the Cole'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, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific from Indonesia to the Philippines, found in reef environments at depths of 20-80 meters.

Log Cole'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 Cole's Dottyback alongside everything else in your reef.

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