Blue Barred Dottyback

The Blue Barred Dottyback (Pseudochromis cyanotaenia) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its vibrant electric blue horizontal stripes set against a yellow to orange body, small size, and bold personality. This species stands out in nano and reef tanks alike, offering both color and charisma.

Males typically display slightly more vivid coloration and may be more territorial, especially during breeding behavior, while females and juveniles tend to be smaller and less intensely colored, with subtler stripe contrast.

They reach about 2.5 to 3 inches in adult size and should be housed in aquariums of at least 20 to 30 gallons, especially if kept with other semi-aggressive or similarly sized tank mates. Provide ample live rock with hiding spots, as these fish like to claim territories and dart in and out of crevices. A few open swimming areas are also beneficial for natural activity.

Maintain stable water parameters:

• Salinity: ~1.020–1.025

• Temperature: ~72–79°F

• pH: ~8.1–8.4

A secure lid is essential, as dottybacks are agile jumpers, especially when startled or stressed.

Diet should consist of a varied mix of mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, high-quality marine pellets or flakes, and occasionally chopped seafood or enriched frozen foods to enhance coloration and health.

With proper care and thoughtful tank mate selection, the Blue Barred Dottyback makes a brilliant and lively addition to saltwater aquariums, particularly those with vibrant reef settings.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.