enticing a shy fish out

[bjolly]

I have a new orchid dottyback that just won't come out of the rocks. I can see him in there, he looks fine, but I'd like to see him now and then! These aren't supposed to be shy fish, are they? there is nothing that is picking on him. He's been in the tank 3 days. Is there anything I can do to entice him out, other than leaving him alone and hoping he adjusts?

 

[125mph]

Give him time... my potters didnt come up for over a week... Got lucky with my regal and he was only in hiding for 2 days.

 

[SpookyMcSpooker]

try dimming the lights and maybe offer a little food?

 

[nanoreefer1000]

orchid dottybacks can be very secretive, give him/her as many hiding spots as possible.

 

[velvetelvis]

nanoreefer is right. Dottybacks, like Centropyge angels, tend to spend their time darting in and out of hiding, which is a good survival strategy if you're small and an easy-to-swallow shape. They're like hummingbirds, never still. Once your dottyback has settled in, you should start seeing him pop up here and there as he constantly weaves in and out of the live rock, hunting and exploring.

 

[bjolly]

it's starting to come out a little bit - though the minute it sees me looking it hides again! Gorgeous fish, I really hope it continues to get a bit braver.

 

[DrBegalke]

It will. Just give it more time.