Cherry dottyback Care Guide

General Information

The Cherry Dottyback is a vibrant and rare species of fish originating from Indonesia. With its dazzling colors, it is often a remarkable addition to any aquarium, although it's classed under the "Least Concern" conservation status. Its moderate hardiness makes it a feasible choice for aquarists with some experience.

Tank Setup

Cherry Dottybacks are highly territorial, meaning that the tank setup should reflect this characteristic. Ensure at least 75 liters per fish to accommodate their space requirements. They thrive best in water temperatures ranging from 24°C to 28°C with a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4. Considering their territorial behavior, providing plenty of hiding places using rocks or artificial corals is essential.

Feeding

A balanced diet will help maintain the health and vibrancy of the Cherry Dottyback. Their diet can include a mix of high-quality fish pellets, live foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Providing a diversified diet can help to meet their nutritional needs and stimulate their natural hunting instincts.

Care Process

While the Cherry Dottyback's hardiness is moderate, regular maintenance is necessary to ensure optimal health. Weekly water changes and monitoring of water parameters are essential to prevent unnecessary stress on the fish. Observing their behavior is vital; if they become overly aggressive, consider adjusting the tank setup to reduce territorial stress.

Compatibility

Due to their extremely territorial nature, Cherry Dottybacks should not be housed with smaller or more passive species. They can coexist with fish of similar size and temperament, but caution is advised in community tanks. Introducing them last into a community tank can help mitigate territorial disputes.

Breeding

Breeding Cherry Dottybacks in captivity can be challenging due to their territorial behavior. If attempting breeding, provide plenty of hiding spots and ensure each fish is given adequate space to establish territory. Conditioning with a high-quality diet will help prepare breeding pairs.

Conclusion

The Cherry Dottyback is an intriguing and striking addition to an aquarium, best suited for aquarists who have experience managing territorial species. Attention to tank setup, diet, and compatibility is crucial in caring for this challenging yet rewarding species.