Fin's Fish Guide
The Brown dottyback (Pseudochromis fuscus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pseudochromidae that grows up to 10 cm.
Indo-Pacific from Sri Lanka to Vanuatu; reef-associated among branching corals.
Description
The brown dottyback (Pseudochromis fuscus) is a small, colour-variable reef fish of the Indo-Pacific, from Sri Lanka to Vanuatu, north to Hong Kong and the Ryukyu Islands and south to Western Australia and the southern Great Barrier Reef. It grows to 10 centimetres and lives reef-associated at 2-30 metres, often among branching corals such as Acropora and Pocillopora. The colour varies widely, from almost blackish brown to bright yellow. It is a solitary, territorial predator with an elongate, compressed body. The species is popular in the marine aquarium trade and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Brown dottyback?
The Brown dottyback has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Colour varies greatly from blackish-brown to bright yellow; lives among branching corals and is popular in the marine aquarium trade.
Where does the Brown dottyback live?
The Brown dottyback lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific from Sri Lanka to Vanuatu; reef-associated among branching corals.
How big does the Brown dottyback get?
The Brown dottyback grows to a maximum of about 10 cm.
Is the Brown dottyback dangerous to humans?
No, the Brown dottyback is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Brown dottyback edible?
The Brown dottyback is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Brown dottyback?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown dottyback is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pseudochromis
More from the family Pseudochromidae
Want the complete picture on the Brown dottyback?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Brown dottyback is one of 12,519 species in the app.