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Strawberry Dottyback (Pictichromis porphyrea)

Strawberry Dottyback

Pictichromis porphyrea
Family
Dottyback / Pseudochromidae
Care level
Beginner
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Reef safe
Reef safe
Max size
6 cm
Min tank
100 L · 26 gal
Origin
Western Pacific
Diet
Carnivore
Food
Mysis, Brine shrimp, Marine pellets, Frozen carnivore blends

Overview

The Strawberry Dottyback is a small, uniformly deep pink-to-magenta fish, one of the most vividly coloured small dottybacks available, offering strong colour impact for a nano or small reef tank. It's a hardy, easy-to-feed species well suited to a wide range of tank sizes.

Like most dottybacks it can be territorial, particularly toward similarly shaped or sized fish, so this is a species best added with some thought to existing tankmates rather than as an afterthought.

Its small size, vivid colour, and general hardiness make it a popular choice for keepers wanting a bold splash of colour without the space demands of a larger fish.

Compatibility

Strawberry Dottybacks can be territorial and occasionally nippy toward smaller, similarly shaped fish such as small gobies or blennies, so care with tankmate selection is worthwhile. They are generally fine with larger, more robust community fish that won't be intimidated.

They are fully reef safe and won't bother corals, clams, or invertebrates.

Health & quarantine

This is a hardy, adaptable species with few chronic health issues, generally acclimating and feeding well without major complications. A standard quarantine period of two to four weeks is recommended good practice, and this species typically ships and settles in with minimal stress.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Strawberry Dottyback reef safe?
Yes, fully reef safe with corals and invertebrates.
Is the Strawberry Dottyback aggressive?
It can be territorial, particularly toward smaller or similarly shaped fish, so tankmate selection matters.
What tank size suits a Strawberry Dottyback?
As small as 100 litres works well given its compact size.
Can I keep two Strawberry Dottybacks together?
Generally not recommended in a small tank — they can be aggressive toward their own kind unless introduced as a confirmed pair in a larger system.
Is the Strawberry Dottyback a good beginner fish?
Yes, it's hardy and easy to feed, though its territorial nature should be considered when planning tankmates.

Care guidance is drawn from our own experience — every fish is an individual, so treat it as a starting point, not a guarantee. Not sure if a species suits your tank? Come ask us in store. New to the terms? Read the care-terms glossary.