Springer's Dottyback (Pseudochromis springeri) Care Guide
Pseudochromis springeri is a small Red Sea dottyback that lives among corals on lagoon and seaward reefs and is regularly bred in captivity.
Overview
Pseudochromis springeri is a small marine dottyback described by Lubbock in 1975. It is endemic to the Red Sea and is commonly called Springer's dottyback.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pseudochromidae
- Genus: Pseudochromis
- Scientific name: Pseudochromis springeri Lubbock, 1975
Habitat
The species is found in the Red Sea, in the Western Indian Ocean. FishBase describes it as a common inhabitant of lagoon and seaward reefs, reef-associated at depths of 2 to 60 m in tropical water of 24-27 °C, occurring among corals.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 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
Springer's 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
It is an egg-layer. According to FishBase, it has been reared in captivity, and captive-bred specimens are available in the aquarium trade.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed 13 August 2019.