ORA Springeri Dottyback (Captive-Bred) for Sale
The ORA Springeri Dottyback (Pseudochromis springeri) is a captive-bred saltwater fish recognized for its deep blue body with electric-blue highlights. Small yet hardy, it adapts well to reef aquariums. Many hobbyists ask if the ORA Springeri Dottyback is reef safe, and while it does not bother corals, caution is advised with very small shrimp. Another frequent question is how big does a Springeri Dottyback get? Adults reach around 3 inches. What size tank does a Springeri Dottyback need? A modest 30-gallon setup is recommended for one specimen. Are ORA Springeri Dottybacks aggressive? They are semi-aggressive, but aquacultured individuals are less intense than wild-caught fish. Finally, what do ORA Springeri Dottybacks eat? They accept a range of prepared and frozen carnivore foods.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pseudochromis springeri |
| Family | Pseudochromidae |
| Origin | Red Sea, aquacultured by ORA |
| Adult Size | Up to 3 inches |
| Lifespan | 5–7 years in captivity |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Reef Safe | With caution (avoid very small shrimp) |
| Diet | Carnivorous – meaty frozen foods, pellets |
| Temperature | 75–80°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.026 SG |
Appearance
The ORA Springeri Dottyback has a striking black to deep blue body accented with bright electric-blue lines across the head and fins. Its slim, streamlined profile helps it weave through rock crevices, giving it a lively presence in reef aquariums despite its small size.
Care & Requirements
A single ORA Springeri Dottyback thrives in tanks of 30 gallons or larger with abundant rockwork for hiding places. As they are known jumpers, a secure lid is essential. Water stability is key, with temperatures between 75–80°F, pH of 8.1–8.4, and salinity at 1.020–1.026.
Feeding is straightforward: provide small portions once or twice daily. They readily consume mysis shrimp, enriched frozen preparations, chopped seafood, and quality carnivore pellets. Offering variety improves health and coloration. Beyond diet, they serve a useful role by helping to keep nuisance bristleworm populations in check.
Behaviorally, Springeri Dottybacks show territorial tendencies. Only one should be kept per aquarium unless introducing a bonded pair. With thoughtful aquascaping and careful stocking, they settle well in reef systems and coexist with similarly assertive species.
Do ORA Springeri Dottybacks jump? Yes, a tight-fitting lid is required.
How often should they be fed? Once or twice daily in small amounts is ideal.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
Springeri Dottybacks can coexist with other semi-aggressive fish, including clownfish, cardinalfish, tangs, and wrasses. The key is to avoid mixing them with timid or slow-moving species that may be harassed. Small ornamental shrimp are at risk and should not be housed with them.
To reduce conflict, introduce less aggressive fish first, then add the dottyback last. Larger tanks with caves and rockwork help establish natural boundaries, keeping aggression in check.
Can they live with other dottybacks? Generally no, unless housed as a proven pair in a large aquarium.
Are they safe with corals? Yes, they are fully reef safe with corals.
Aquaculture/Availability
The ORA Springeri Dottyback is a consistently captive-bred species, making it a sustainable alternative to wild-caught dottybacks. ORA’s breeding program ensures healthy, aquarium-adapted fish that are more resistant to transport stress and common diseases. Regular availability makes them a reliable choice for both beginner and advanced hobbyists.
Are all ORA Springeri Dottybacks captive bred? Yes, ORA offers only aquacultured specimens.
Do captive-bred dottybacks adapt faster? They do, as they are conditioned to aquarium life from the start.
Why Buy From Oceansgarden.com
- Captive-Bred & Sustainable: Many of our fish and invertebrates are captive-bred or sustainably sourced to promote healthy reef ecosystems.
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FAQ
Do ORA Springeri Dottybacks need lots of swimming space? They are active for their size, so tanks with both open water and caves suit them best.
Can ORA Springeri Dottybacks be bred in aquariums? Breeding is possible but requires pairing and careful tank management.
How long do ORA Springeri Dottybacks live? With good care, they live 5–7 years.
Do they ever lose their color? No, they keep their dark blue and black coloration throughout life.
What are signs of stress in ORA Springeri Dottybacks? Excessive hiding, lack of appetite, or faded color may indicate stress.
Do they require long acclimation? A slow drip acclimation of 30–45 minutes helps minimize stress during introduction.
| size | up to 2 inches |
|---|






