How big does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback get?

The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback reaches about 1.5–3" as an adult.

What size tank does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback need?

A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback.

What water parameters does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback need?

The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback does best with a temperature of 85–96°F, a pH of 8–8.5, hardness around 5–12 dGH.

Is the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback aggressive?

The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback is semi-aggressive. It can work in a community with careful tankmate choices and enough space.

What does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback eat?

The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback is a carnivore. It needs a meaty, protein-rich diet of frozen or live foods.

How long does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback live?

With good care, the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback typically lives 1-3 years.

Is the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback reef safe?

The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback is not considered reliably reef safe and may harm corals or invertebrates.

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FishSaltwaterBeginnerSemi aggressive

Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback

Pseudochromis tapeinosoma

A compact, crevice-loving dottyback with a wide Indo-Pacific range.

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About

The horseshoe-tailed dottyback (Pseudochromis tapeinosoma) is a small but feisty reef fish with a broad natural range stretching from the western coast of Australia across to New Caledonia and northward all the way to Japan, with populations also reported from Indian waters near the Laccadive Sea. In the wild it favors inshore reefs, tide pools, and lagoons, typically tucking itself into crevices either alone or with a partner. That secretive, shelter-seeking behavior carries straight into the aquarium, where it will claim a favorite cave or gap in the rockwork and defend it with the signature boldness dottybacks are known for. Despite that territorial streak, its small adult size and generally forgiving nature make it a workable choice for hobbyists who are newer to saltwater keeping, provided tankmates are chosen thoughtfully. Like all dottybacks it is a dedicated carnivore, targeting small invertebrates and meaty foods. A well-structured reef setup with plenty of hiding spots will keep it comfortable and visible. It's not the most commonly seen dottyback in the hobby, which makes it something of a find for keepers who enjoy exploring the less-represented corners of the Pseudochromis family.

At a glance

Type: Fish
Water: Saltwater
Adult size: 1.5–3"
Min tank: 30 gal
Lifespan: 1-3 years
Origin: Indo-West Pacific: western coast of Australia (Ref. 7300) to New Caledonia (Ref. 11897), north to Japan (Ref. 559). Reported from the Laccadive Sea in India (Ref. 45255).
Diet: Carnivore
Temperament: Semi aggressive
Swimming level: Middle
Reef safe: No

Water parameters

Temperature: 85–96°F
pH: 8–8.5
Hardness: 5–12 dGH

Care guide

Provide substantial rockwork with crevices and caves. This species will select a territory and defend it vigorously. Feed small frozen foods like mysis shrimp and chopped seafood once or twice daily; offer variety to maintain nutrition. Keep it singly or as an established pair only; it will harass smaller fish and most crustaceans. Monitor for aggression toward new additions and be prepared to rearrange rockwork if conflicts arise. Despite its bold temperament, it remains hardy and forgiving of minor water parameter shifts, making it suitable for newer reef keepers willing to respect its territorial nature.

Region

🌎 Central Indo-Pacific

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Frequently asked questions

How big does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback get?: The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback reaches about 1.5–3" as an adult.
What size tank does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback need?: A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback.
What water parameters does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback need?: The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback does best with a temperature of 85–96°F, a pH of 8–8.5, hardness around 5–12 dGH.
Is the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback aggressive?: The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback is semi-aggressive. It can work in a community with careful tankmate choices and enough space.
What does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback eat?: The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback is a carnivore. It needs a meaty, protein-rich diet of frozen or live foods.
How long does the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback live?: With good care, the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback typically lives 1-3 years.
Is the Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback reef safe?: The Horseshoe-tailed Dottyback is not considered reliably reef safe and may harm corals or invertebrates.