Orchid Dottyback

Origin and Temperament of Orchid Dottyback

 

Orchid Dottyback can be found in the wild in the Red Sea, usually in deeper waters, but can be found as shallow as 3 feet. Of all of the dottyback varieties, the Orchid Dottyback is considered to be one of the most laid back. That doesnt mean theyre not aggressive at all, as most dottyback can hold their own, but it does allow the Orchid Dottyback to be kept in a quieter setting with some of their cousins.

 

Orchid Dottyback Feed and Care

 

As with all similar fish in their species, Orchid Dottyback feed primarily on small crustaceans and zooplankton, though some may consume polychaetes and small fish. In the home aquarium you can expect Orchid Dottyback to feed from the water column, accepting most anything that is meat based. The aquarium should have plenty of hiding places available, as they like to make their home in crevices and small caves.

Size and Life Expectancy

Orchid Dottyback fish are usually about 3 in size when full grown, making it about average size for a dottyback. Depending on the quality of food provided and overall tank health and conditions, they can live successfully and healthily for several years in captive marine tanks.

Pairing Up With Other Fish

This particular type of species is considered moderately to semi-aggressive. They are extremely territorial, and in most cases Orchid Dottyback need to be paired with other similarly aggressive fish like surgeonfish and triggers. Adding milder mannered fish to the tank puts them in danger of being harassed by an Orchid Dottyback.

Lighting and Tank Care for Orchid Dottyback

Because most species of this fish originate from 60 feet or deeper water in the wild, they prefer dimmer lit tanks. Since Orchid Dottyback are slightly more laid back, it may be possible to pair them with their own species if all fish are introduced to the tank at the same time, alleviating some of the territorial issues.