The Indigo Longfin Dottyback is a striking captive-bred hybrid produced from the Orchid Dottyback (Pseudochromis fridmani) and the Striped Dottyback (Pseudochromis sankeyi). Rather than representing a naturally occurring species, the Indigo Dottyback is an aquarium-bred hybrid and is scientifically designated Pseudochromis fridmani × Pseudochromis sankeyi. Both parent species originate from the Red Sea, but the Indigo hybrid itself is not known as a naturally occurring wild population.
Its coloration combines characteristics of both parent species, typically displaying shades of indigo to blue-purple along with darker markings. Longfin individuals are selectively bred for elongated finnage, adding an especially graceful appearance to this already distinctive fish.
Indigo Dottybacks generally reach approximately 3 inches in length. Compared with many dottybacks, they are often described as relatively mild or social, although individuals can still become territorial toward other dottybacks or similarly shaped fishes. Providing plentiful rockwork, caves, and crevices allows the fish to establish secure retreats and display its natural behavior.
As a captive-bred/tank-raised fish, the Indigo Longfin Dottyback is an excellent choice for aquarists interested in aquarium-produced marine livestock. It is generally hardy, accepts a wide range of prepared aquarium foods, and is suitable for reef aquariums because it normally leaves corals alone.
Care Guide
Scientific Designation: Pseudochromis fridmani × Pseudochromis sankeyi
Common Name: Indigo Longfin Dottyback
Family: Pseudochromidae
Origin: Captive-bred hybrid
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive to moderately peaceful for a dottyback
Reef Compatibility: Reef compatible
Minimum Aquarium Size: 30 gallons
Maximum Size: Approximately 3 inches
Diet: Carnivore
Temperature: 72–78°F
Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025
pH: 8.1–8.4
dKH: 8–12
Aquarium Requirements:
Provide a well-established saltwater aquarium with plenty of live rock, caves, and crevices. Indigo Dottybacks naturally spend considerable time moving through and around rock structure and appreciate secure retreats. A 30-gallon aquarium or larger is appropriate for a single individual.
Temperament:
The Indigo hybrid tends to inherit some of the comparatively mild disposition of the Striped Dottyback and is generally less aggressive than many traditional dottyback species. Nevertheless, it can defend its chosen territory, particularly against other dottybacks or similarly shaped fishes.
Reef Compatibility:
Generally considered reef compatible. It is not normally a threat to corals, although very small ornamental crustaceans may warrant caution because dottybacks are carnivorous predators.
Diet and Feeding:
Feed a varied carnivorous diet including mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, krill, finely chopped marine foods, quality pellets, and other appropriately sized meaty preparations. ORA specifically recommends zooplanktonic foods such as brine shrimp, mysis, and krill.
Adult Size:
Approximately 3 inches.
