Royal Dottyback
Pictichromis paccagnellae
What you need to keep a Royal Dottyback
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Seachem Reef Carbonate
From R161Sizes
Seachem Ammonia Alert
R267
Seachem Reef Iron
From R162Sizes
Seachem Reef Phosphorus
From R162Sizes
pH
8.1–8.4
Temperature
24–27 °C
Max size
7 cm
Min tank
100 L
Where to buy
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
A vivid purple-and-yellow dottyback with a temperament far larger than its body. Reef safe, but will harass smaller or more timid fish; add it last.
Care guide
Keeping Royal Dottyback healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
A minimum 100L aquarium suits Royal Dottyback. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 8.1–8.4 and 24–27°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore — frozen and prepared foods. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Aggressive for its size. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Royal Dottyback last so territories reset.
Breeding
Breeding success with Royal Dottyback depends on the line and water chemistry; ask your shop about proven pairs.
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