Diadema Dottyback
Scientific Name: Pictichromis diadema
Also Known As: Diadem Dottyback, Purple Stripe Dottyback, Diadema Pseudochromis
Care Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Diet: Carnivore
Reef Safe: Yes – with caution around small ornamental shrimp
Minimum Aquarium Size: Approx. 115L+
Maximum Size: Approx. 6cm
Origin: Western Central Pacific
The Diadema Dottyback (Pictichromis diadema) is a compact but striking marine fish featuring a bright yellow body with a bold purple stripe running along the upper portion of the fish.
Its intense colouration, hardy nature and confident personality make it an excellent option for marine aquarists wanting a smaller fish that still stands out strongly in a reef aquarium.
Aquarium Care
Diadema Dottybacks are hardy and adaptable, but they can also be territorial and assertive, particularly towards smaller or more timid fish.
Provide plenty of live rock, caves and hiding places, allowing the fish to establish its own territory within the aquarium.
They are generally best kept with other confident marine fish rather than extremely peaceful species that may be easily intimidated.
Avoid keeping multiple similar dottybacks together unless the aquarium is large enough to provide substantial separation between territories.
Feeding
The Diadema Dottyback is primarily carnivorous and should be offered a varied diet of quality marine foods including:
A varied diet will help maintain strong body condition and vibrant colouration.
Reef Compatibility
Diadema Dottybacks are generally considered reef safe with corals, making them suitable for many mixed reef aquariums.
However, caution should be taken with small ornamental shrimp and tiny crustaceans, as these may be viewed as prey.
Why We Like Them
The Diadema Dottyback delivers an impressive amount of colour and personality in a relatively small fish.
Their contrasting yellow and purple colouration, hardy nature and bold behaviour make them particularly appealing for reef aquariums where you want a fish that won't disappear into the background.
Just keep their territorial nature in mind when choosing tankmates.
