Purple Pseudochromis, Size 1.25 – 2.25 inches

Quick Stats:

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 4 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

 

Comprehensive Guide: Purple Pseudochromis (Pictichromis porphyreus)

Habitat:

The Purple Pseudochromis is native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically found in the waters of the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Sea. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas with plenty of hiding spots.

Reef Safe:

The Purple Pseudochromis is considered reef-safe, making it suitable for reef aquariums. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with small shrimps or other small ornamental invertebrates, as it may prey on them.

Size:

The Purple Pseudochromis can grow up to 4 inches long, making it a relatively small fish for a saltwater aquarium.

Temperament:

This species is semi-aggressive and may display territorial behavior toward other fish in the tank. It is generally peaceful towards other species of similar size and temperament.

Sexual Dimorphism:

No distinguishable physical differences between males and females of the Purple Pseudochromis species exist.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the Purple Pseudochromis is around 5 to 8 years, but with proper care, it can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums:

In aquariums, the Purple Pseudochromis is a carnivorous fish. It should be fed a varied diet consisting of high-quality pellets, frozen or live meaty foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and small pieces of fish or shrimp.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

Provide plenty of hiding spots and caves using live rock or artificial structures to mimic its natural habitat. This species appreciates a well-established reef aquarium with plenty of coral and other invertebrates.

Captive Bred Availability:

The Purple Pseudochromis is available as captive-bred in the aquarium trade. Captive-bred specimens are generally hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions than wild-caught individuals.

Compatibility with Tankmates:

The Purple Pseudochromis can be kept with other semi-aggressive fish species of similar size. Avoid keeping it with smaller, more docile fish that may become targets of aggression. Here are five specific tankmates that can be good choices:

1. Firefish (Nemateleotris magnifica) – Peaceful and adds vibrant color to the tank.
2. Banggai Cardinalfish (Pterapogon kauderni) – Peaceful, reef-safe, and visually striking.
3. Yellowtail Damsel (Chrysiptera parasema) – Hardy, colorful, and suitable for beginners.
4. Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) – Hardy, iconic, and forms a symbiotic relationship with anemones.
5. Blue/Green Chromis (Chromis viridis) – Schooling fish that adds movement and color to the tank.

Other Common Names:

The Purple Pseudochromis is also known by other common names such as Purple Dottyback and Magenta Dottyback.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the ideal tank size for the Purple Pseudochromis?

A: The Purple Pseudochromis requires a minimum tank size of 30 gallons to provide enough swimming space and hiding spots.

Q: Can the Purple Pseudochromis be kept with corals?

A: The Purple Pseudochromis is reef-safe and can be kept with various corals. However, caution should be exercised when keeping it with small, delicate corals that may be nipped at.

Q: How often should I feed my Purple Pseudochromis?

A: It is recommended to feed the Purple Pseudochromis twice a day, offering a varied diet of high-quality pellets, frozen or live meaty foods.

Q: Can the Purple Pseudochromis be kept in a community tank?

A: While the Purple Pseudochromis can be kept with other fish, it is best suited for a semi-aggressive tank setup. Care should be taken when selecting tankmates to ensure compatibility.

Q: Does the Purple Pseudochromis require any special water parameters?

A: The Purple Pseudochromis prefers stable water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, salinity between 1.020-1.025, and a temperature of 72-78°F.