McCulloch's Dottyback (Pseudochromis mccullochi)

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

McCulloch's Dottyback

Quick facts

Scientific namePseudochromis mccullochi
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: 8.1-8.4 Salinity: 1.023-1.026
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

McCulloch's Dottyback is a small, elongated fish with brilliant red-orange coloration on the head and upper body, grading to yellow-orange on the lower body and fins. It has a slender profile typical of plesiopids and exhibits subtle banding patterns on the tail.

Diet and feeding

Feeds on small crustaceans and zooplankton in the wild. In captivity, offer frozen mysis shrimp, finely chopped frozen foods, and high-quality prepared carnivore pellets. Feed small portions multiple times daily.

Difficulty and care for the McCulloch'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, primarily from the Philippines and Indonesia to the Great Barrier Reef.

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