Marshall Islands Dottyback (Pseudochromis marshallensis)

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

Marshall Islands Dottyback

Quick facts

Scientific namePseudochromis marshallensis
FamilyPlesiopidae
Care levelExpert
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size3.5 in
Minimum tank size30 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-82°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Small elongated fish with bright violet to red coloration on the body and yellow-orange fin edges. The head and anterior body tend toward deeper purple-red, while the posterior is often lighter violet.

Diet and feeding

Feed high-quality frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and small crustaceans. May accept quality pellets with patience and conditioning. Offer varied diet to ensure proper nutrition.

Difficulty and care for the Marshall Islands 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 Disease, Gill Disease, Bacterial Infections

Origin and habitat

Western Pacific, endemic to the Marshall Islands.

Log Marshall Islands 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 Marshall Islands Dottyback alongside everything else in your reef.