Purpletop Dottyback
(Pictichromis diadema)

Descrição

The common name for *Pictichromis diadema* is “Diadem Dottyback” or “Purpletop Dottyback” or “Purple Stripe Dottyback”. I will use “Diadem Dottyback” and “Purpletop Dottyback” as common names and “Purple Stripe” as a variant.

**Husbandry Data Collection:**

* **Maximum Size:** 6 cm. Some sources list 2.5 inches, which is approximately 6.35 cm. I will use 6 cm.
* **Origin:** Indo-West Pacific Ocean; Malayan Peninsula to the Philippines and northern Borneo. Native to Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand.
* **pH Range:** 8.0-8.4.
* **Temperature:** 22-27°C. Some sources specify 22.2-25.6°C or 24-26°C, and 28-29°C as preferred. I’ll use 23-27°C as a good general range.
* **Lifespan:** Around 4 years.
* **Swimming Zone:** Primarily bottom/rock dwelling, near coral and rubble, hides in rocks.
* **Diet:** Omnivorous with carnivorous tendency. Eats small worms, crustaceans, zooplankton. Accepts dry food (flakes, pellets), fresh food, frozen food, meaty foods like Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely shaved krill/mussel/cockle/clam. Diet rich in carotenoids helps maintain color.
* **Temperament/Compatibility:** Feisty/aggressive and highly territorial. Can be aggressive towards conspecifics and smaller, peaceful fish. Best kept singly or in mated pairs in large tanks. Should be housed with robust, larger tank mates. Known to prey on ornamental shrimp, crabs, fanworms, and bristleworms. Can be skittish.
* **Care Level:** Intermediate. Moderately hardy. Considered “easy” by some but with caveats due to aggression. Given its territorial nature and specific tank mate requirements, “Intermediate” is appropriate.
* **Minimum Tank Size:** 110 litres (approx 30 gallons). Some sources state 50 litres (13 gallons) or 20 gallons. For proper management of aggression and territory, a larger tank size is better. I will use 110L / 30 gallons.
* **Appearance and Behavior:** Elongated shape, slightly compressed laterally. Bright yellow body with a vibrant purple/magenta stripe running from the mouth along the back to the caudal fin base. Eyes may have a blue ring. Lives in small groups or solitarily, typically near the bottom, hiding in rocks. Defends territory. Known jumpers. Can lose color in captivity if diet is not rich. Hermaphroditic; can change sex from female to male. Often captive-bred.

All information seems consistent across multiple reliable sources.

Diadem Dottyback: A Dazzling Purple Stripe for Your Reef

Add a burst of vibrant colour to your marine aquarium with the stunning Diadem Dottyback. Its captivating appearance and active nature will make it a focal point in your well-planned setup.

Overview

The Diadem Dottyback, also known as the Purpletop Dottyback, is a strikingly beautiful marine fish displaying a bright sunny yellow body contrasted by a bold, iridescent purple stripe running along its back, from snout to tail. Growing to about 6 cm, this active species adds dynamic movement to the lower and mid-levels of your aquarium. They are known for their territorial defense, especially around their preferred hiding spots within rockwork.

Care Level

Considered an intermediate care level fish, the Diadem Dottyback is moderately hardy but possesses a highly territorial and semi-aggressive temperament. It is crucial to select tank mates carefully, opting for robust, similarly sized, or larger species to avoid conflicts. They are known to challenge smaller, more docile fish and may prey on ornamental shrimps and small invertebrates.

Tank Essentials

A minimum aquarium size of 110 litres (approximately 30 gallons) is recommended for a single Diadem Dottyback to provide ample territory and reduce aggression. Maintain stable water parameters: pH 8.0-8.4, and temperature 23-27°C. Ensure plenty of secure hiding places within live rock structures and a tight-fitting lid, as these fish are excellent jumpers.

Diet

The Diadem Dottyback is an omnivore with a carnivorous tendency. Offer a varied diet of high-quality meaty foods such as Mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and prepared marine flakes or pellets. Regular feeding helps reduce aggression, and carotenoid-rich foods will help maintain its brilliant colours.

Why Buy From Us

When you choose to buy your Diadem Dottyback online from us, you’re investing in healthy aquarium fish. We prioritise ethical sourcing and responsible quarantine practices, ensuring your new companion arrives in prime condition. Our commitment to humane shipping means your fish experiences minimal stress, ready to thrive in your aquatic environment.

• Scientific Name: Pictichromis diadema
• Common Name / Variant: Diadem Dottyback / Purple Stripe
• Maximum Size: 6 cm
• Origin: Indo-West Pacific (Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand)
• pH Range: 8.0–8.4
• Temperature: 23–27°C
• Lifespan: 4 years
• Swimming Zone: Bottom / Mid

Transform your reef tank today—buy Diadem Dottyback online!