Red Elongated Dottyback

Biosecurity Shipping Limitations apply

Shipping Allowed?

The Red Elongated Dottyback (Pseudochromis elongatus) is a beautiful and relatively uncommon dottyback from the Western Pacific. It displays a predominantly deep rosy-red to pink body, with a brighter reddish-orange head and a distinctive dark spot on the caudal fin.

Growing to around 6–7 cm, this is one of the smaller members of the Pseudochromis group. It is an active and intelligent fish that spends much of its time exploring rockwork, caves and crevices.

Although generally considered one of the more manageable dottybacks, it can still become territorial, particularly in smaller aquariums. Providing plenty of rockwork and hiding places helps it establish a territory and feel secure.

The Red Elongated Dottyback is reef safe with caution. It generally leaves corals alone but, like other dottybacks, may prey upon small crustaceans and ornamental shrimp.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Pseudochromis elongatus
• Common Name: Red Elongated Dottyback
• Family: Pseudochromidae
• Type: Marine Fish
• Adult Size: Approximately 6–7 cm
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive / Territorial
• Care Level: Moderate
• Minimum Aquarium: 200 L+
• Temperature: 23–28°C
• pH: 8.0–8.4
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
• Diet: Carnivore
• Tank Level: Bottom to Midwater
• Reef Safe: Yes, with caution
• Recommended Setup: Mature live rock with caves and crevices

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Red Elongated Dottybacks reef safe?

Yes, they are generally reef safe with respect to corals. However, they may prey on small shrimp and other tiny crustaceans.

How large does a Red Elongated Dottyback get?

They reach approximately 6–7 cm as adults.

Are Red Elongated Dottybacks aggressive?

They can be territorial, particularly toward smaller, timid fish and other dottybacks. Plenty of rockwork helps reduce conflict.

Can I keep one with shrimp?

Caution is recommended. While some specimens may coexist with larger cleaner shrimp, small ornamental shrimp can potentially become prey.

What should I feed a Red Elongated Dottyback?

Offer a varied carnivorous diet including Mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood and quality marine pellets.

Does it need hiding places?

Yes. Provide plenty of caves, cracks and crevices within the live rock for shelter and territory.

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Keeping it with very small, timid fish
• ❌ Assuming all ornamental shrimp are safe
• ❌ Providing too little rockwork
• ❌ Keeping multiple dottybacks without sufficient territory
• ❌ Underfeeding a carnivorous fish
• ❌ Adding it to an unstable or immature aquarium