Olive Dottyback (Pseudochromis olivaceus) Care Guide
Pseudochromis olivaceus is a Red Sea dottyback found among corals, the largest of the Red Sea Pseudochromis at up to 9 cm.
Overview
Pseudochromis olivaceus is a marine dottyback described by Rüppell in 1835. It is endemic to the Red Sea and is commonly called the olive dottyback. With a maximum length of 9 cm it is one of the larger Red Sea dottybacks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pseudochromidae
- Genus: Pseudochromis
- Scientific name: Pseudochromis olivaceus Rüppell, 1835
Habitat
The species occurs in the Red Sea, in the Western Indian Ocean. FishBase records it as reef-associated at depths of 1 to 20 m in tropical water of 24-28 °C, found among corals.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness equivalent: 8-12 °dH
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Diet
It is a carnivore. In the aquarium it accepts meaty foods offered twice daily.
Compatibility
The olive dottyback is semi-aggressive and occupies the middle level near rockwork. Reported suitable tankmates include clownfish, tangs, cardinalfish and wrasses. Avoid keeping it with other small dottybacks in confined tanks and with predators such as lionfish.
Breeding
According to FishBase it is a benthic spawner and has been reared in captivity.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 12 August 2019.