Mean Purple DottyBack

[MamaZooKeeper]

I have a mean purple dottyback. It attacks and has killed 2 gobies. (nipping until they have no fins and stay hid and eventually dies). I LOVE gobies and it upsets me. Is there any type of goby they get along with? It seems she doesnt want anyone her size/shape or anyone in her rocks. Shes pretty but not so fabulous on being a good tank mate.

 

[RDtrack]

Welcome to life with the lovely purple dottyback. Hate to say this but your probably better off selling it or taking it back to your LFS.

 

[gbru316]

purple dottybacks (i'm assuming you mean p. porphyreus) are territorial and aggressive, it's just their personality. I had one years ago that I got rid of because it was such a bully.

I'm thinking about another in my latest tank, but it's a nano and it would be the only fish.

A decent, not as aggressive replacement would be an orchid dottyback (p. fridmani). Very similar appearance, not quite as mean, however, significantly more expensive. In my area, purple pseudochromis are $10. Orchid dottybacks are $40.

 

[MamaZooKeeper]

Yeah I may have to catch her so I can get the fish I really want. I just hate having to get rid of them. But she is super aggressive!

 

[RDtrack]

If you'd like a purple fish and are putting it in your 65 you could do a purple tilefish.

Don't feel bad, I had one when I started in this hobby and had the same problem.

 

[Chaucer]

Puprle terror

Puprle terror

I have one and a yellow clown goby. The goby gets chased a bit every day, but come feeding time will stand his ground. My blood shrimp was not so lucky. I had the goby for months before introducing the dottyback. He is very aggressive and has made me think twice before getting any new fish.

 

[BeanMachine]

They are terribly aggressive. A royal gramma or a firefish would be a better choice if you want purple. They both can be a bit shy though.

 

[gone fishin]

Maybe think about a royal gramma.

 

[OodleyBoodely]

I also think the best way to enjoy a psuedochromis is as the only fish in a nano! I kept a bi-color in my 6g and really enjoyed it that way. If you do try a orchid or a gramma(both great fish!) do consider it as a near last addition as they will stake a claim to part of the tank and defend it. Smaller tanks will bring out more attitude as well...something to keep in mind.