Splendid Dottyback
The Splendid Dottyback (Manonichthys splendens) is a striking marine fish with a beautiful blue body covered in pale white-to-yellow spotting, contrasted by a bright yellow tail and distinctive yellow markings around the head.
Bold, confident and full of personality, this species makes an excellent feature fish for established marine aquariums. Splendid Dottybacks are known for holding their own alongside larger tank mates and spending plenty of time moving between caves and rockwork.
Care Information
Scientific Name: Manonichthys splendens
Common Name: Splendid Dottyback
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive to Aggressive
Maximum Size: Approximately 13 cm
Diet: Carnivore
Minimum Aquarium Size: Approximately 115L / 30 gallons
Reef Safe: With Caution
Aquarium Care
Provide plenty of rockwork, caves and hiding places to allow the Splendid Dottyback to establish a territory while still leaving open swimming space.
This species can become territorial, particularly in smaller aquariums, and is capable of standing its ground against fish considerably larger than itself. It is therefore best housed with confident tank mates rather than small, timid species.
Feeding
The Splendid Dottyback should be offered a varied carnivorous diet including:
- Frozen mysis shrimp
- Brine shrimp
- Quality marine pellets
- Finely chopped seafood
- Other high-quality meaty marine foods
Regular feeding helps maintain strong body condition and vibrant colouration.
Reef Compatibility
The Splendid Dottyback can be kept in reef aquariums and is generally suitable around corals. However, small ornamental shrimp may be viewed as prey, so caution should be taken if keeping this species alongside small crustaceans.
For reef keepers wanting something a little different from the usual community fish, the Splendid Dottyback delivers incredible colour, confident behaviour and plenty of personality.
