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About Oblique-Lined Dottyback

The Oblique-Lined Dottyback, also known as the McCullochi Dottyback or Lavender Dottyback, is a striking and relatively uncommon species from the family Pseudochromidae. Its current accepted scientific name is Cypho purpurascens, although older aquarium literature may list it as Pseudochromis purpurascens.

Males are particularly impressive, displaying a rich red to deep pink body with blue margins around the scales and fins, while females are generally blue-grey toward the front before transitioning through orange, red and yellow towards the tail. Both sexes have the characteristic oblique markings along the body.

This is a confident, active fish that spends much of its time around rockwork, caves and crevices. It can become territorial, particularly towards other dottybacks and similarly shaped fish, so plenty of rockwork and hiding places are recommended.

Oblique-Lined Dottybacks are carnivorous and readily accept mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, chopped seafood and quality marine pellets.

They are generally reef safe with corals, although small ornamental shrimp may potentially be viewed as prey.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Cypho purpurascens
Common Name: Oblique-Lined Dottyback / McCullochi Dottyback / Lavender Dottyback
Family: Pseudochromidae
Type: Marine Fish / Dottyback
Adult Size: Approximately 7–8 cm
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Territorial
Care Level: Easy to Intermediate
Minimum Aquarium: 110 L+
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 8.0–8.4
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
Diet: Carnivore
Tank Level: Bottom to Midwater / Rockwork
Reef Safe: Yes, with caution around small invertebrates
Suitable For: Reef aquariums and established marine community tanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Oblique-Lined Dottybacks reef safe?

Yes, they are generally considered reef compatible with corals. However, small ornamental shrimp and very small fish may be at risk due to their predatory behaviour.

Are Oblique-Lined Dottybacks aggressive?

They can be semi-aggressive and territorial, particularly towards other dottybacks or similarly shaped fish.

How big does an Oblique-Lined Dottyback get?

They reach approximately 7–8 cm.

Can Oblique-Lined Dottybacks be kept as a pair?

Yes. Compatible pairs can be kept together, but they should be introduced appropriately and provided with plenty of rockwork and hiding places. Keeping more than one pair generally requires a very large aquarium.

What do Oblique-Lined Dottybacks eat?

They are carnivores and readily accept mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, chopped marine seafood and quality marine pellets.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them with other dottybacks
Territorial disputes can become severe, particularly between similarly shaped species.

Keeping them with tiny ornamental shrimp
Small shrimp may be viewed as prey.

Not providing enough rockwork
Caves and crevices are important for shelter and territory.

Keeping them with extremely timid fish
Their territorial behaviour can cause stress to passive tank mates.

Underestimating their personality
Despite their relatively small adult size, they are confident fish capable of dominating a community aquarium.