ORA Splendid Dottyback Captive-Bred for Sale
The ORA Splendid Dottyback (Manonichthys splendens) is a captive-bred marine fish with a striking blue body patterned with yellow and white spots. Is the ORA Splendid Dottyback reef safe? It is reef safe with caution, as it may prey on very small ornamental shrimp. What tank size does a Splendid Dottyback need? A single specimen requires at least a 30-gallon aquarium. Are they aggressive? They are semi-aggressive and should be housed with fish of similar or larger size. What do Splendid Dottybacks eat? They thrive on a varied carnivorous diet of pellets, frozen foods, and meaty fare like mysis shrimp.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Manonichthys splendens |
| Family | Pseudochromidae |
| Origin | Indo-Pacific (captive-bred by ORA) |
| Adult Size | 3–4 inches |
| Lifespan | 5–7 years |
| Minimum Tank Size | 30 gallons |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Reef Safe | With caution |
| Diet | Carnivorous: pellets, frozen mysis, brine shrimp |
| Temperature | 75–80°F |
| pH Range | 7.8–8.5 |
| Salinity | 1.020–1.026 |
Appearance
The ORA Splendid Dottyback has a deep blue body overlaid with a starry pattern of yellow and white spots. Many individuals develop a vivid yellow tail and a bold eye stripe, giving them a distinctive look among reef fish. Their compact build makes them easy to identify in aquariums.
Care & Requirements
The ORA Splendid Dottyback adapts well to aquarium life when provided stable water conditions and adequate territory. A 30-gallon tank or larger with live rock arranged to form caves and crevices helps establish natural shelter and reduces stress. Water parameters should remain between 75–80°F, pH 7.8–8.5, and salinity 1.020–1.026. Good circulation and reliable filtration maintain water quality.
This species accepts a variety of meaty foods, including frozen mysis shrimp, chopped seafood, brine shrimp, and quality pellets for carnivores. Offer small meals two to three times daily to ensure proper nutrition and reduce aggression over food. They are hardy fish but do best in well-maintained aquariums with stable conditions.
Do Splendid Dottybacks need live rock? Yes, they benefit from caves and hiding areas for territory.
How often should they be fed? Provide two to three small meals daily.
Are Splendid Dottybacks good for new aquarists? They are hardy but better suited for aquarists with some marine fish experience due to territorial behavior.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
The ORA Splendid Dottyback should be introduced toward the end of a tank’s stocking order to reduce territorial conflicts. They coexist best with semi-aggressive or active species of similar or larger size, such as clownfish, tangs, larger angelfish, and damsels.
They should not be kept with other Dottybacks or with peaceful, small fish like tiny gobies. Royal Grammas and Six-line Wrasses also make poor companions due to overlapping niches and similar aggression levels. While they generally leave corals unharmed, they may prey on ornamental shrimp, so caution is needed in reef aquariums.
Can two Splendid Dottybacks live together? Only in tanks larger than 100 gallons with ample territory.
Are they safe with cleaner shrimp? They may eat small shrimp, so use caution.
What fish are best companions? Clownfish, tangs, damsels, or larger angelfish.
Aquaculture/Availability
The ORA Splendid Dottyback is consistently available as a captive-bred species. ORA raises these fish in controlled aquaculture systems, producing hardy specimens that adapt well to aquarium conditions. Captive-bred individuals are generally less prone to disease and stress compared to wild-caught fish.
Choosing captive-bred also supports sustainable practices by reducing pressure on natural reef populations. ORA’s ongoing breeding programs ensure this species remains available to hobbyists throughout the year.
Why choose captive-bred fish? They adjust better to aquariums and support reef conservation.
Is this species available year-round? Most of the time yes, ORA supplies them consistently.
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.
- Expert Care Before Shipping: Every animal is maintained under professional aquarium standards for health, diet, and water quality.
- Live Arrival Guarantee: We stand behind each shipment with a Live Arrival Guarantee for your peace of mind.
- Fast, Reliable Shipping: Orders are packed with proven methods and shipped overnight to ensure safe arrival.
- Transparent Policies: Clear shipping, refund, and guarantee information available on every order page.
- Trusted by Hobbyists: Backed by years of experience and thousands of satisfied marine aquarium keepers across the U.S.
Full FAQ
What are signs of a stressed or unhealthy Splendid Dottyback?
Loss of appetite, fading colors, or constant hiding can signal stress. Check water quality and watch for aggression from other fish.
Can Splendid Dottybacks jump out of the tank?
Yes, they may jump when startled. Always keep a secure lid on the aquarium.
How do you acclimate a Splendid Dottyback?
Use drip acclimation over 30–45 minutes to reduce shock from water parameter changes.
Do Splendid Dottybacks breed in aquariums?
They may spawn, but their aggression toward each other makes breeding difficult in home aquariums.
What are some good alternatives to brine shrimp for feeding?
Mysis shrimp, chopped seafood, and carnivore pellets offer more nutrition than brine shrimp alone.
Any known diseases for Splendid Dottybacks?
They are hardy but may develop common marine illnesses like ich if stressed. Captive-bred fish tend to resist disease better.
Do they change color as they grow?
Juveniles may display less yellow on the tail, which develops more fully in adults.
| size | 1-2 inches |
|---|
Related products
