The Lavender dottyback (Cypho purpurascens) is a saltwater fish of the family Pseudochromidae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The lavender dottyback is a small, colourful dottyback from the southwest Pacific, around the Great Barrier reefs. The species grows to about 8 cm; males are purple-red with oblique lines, females orangish. As a shy reef-dweller it keeps hidden in crevices and cavities, from where it hunts small zooplankton and tiny crustaceans. It is fiercely territorial. The fish appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN has not evaluated the species.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lavender dottyback?
The Lavender dottyback has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly pink-purple and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Lavender dottyback live?
The Lavender dottyback lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground.
How big does the Lavender dottyback get?
The Lavender dottyback grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Lavender dottyback dangerous to humans?
No, the Lavender dottyback is harmless to humans.
Is the Lavender dottyback edible?
The Lavender dottyback is not usually eaten.
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Pseudochromidae
Download Fin's Fish Guide
Identify fish in seconds, log your catches and dives. Join the TestFlight beta.