Fin's Fish Guide
The Firetail dottyback (Pseudochromis flammicauda) is a saltwater fish of the family Pseudochromidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Description
The firetail dottyback is a dottyback (Pseudochromidae) from the waters around Australia. The species is small and has a grey-brown body with a conspicuous orange-red tail, to which the name refers. It lives inshore on coral and rocky reefs and keeps in or near holes and crevices of coral or rock, into which it quickly withdraws. As an ambush hunter it takes small crustaceans and other invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Firetail dottyback?
The Firetail dottyback has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Strikingly orange-red tail; ambush predator hidden in reef crevices.
Where does the Firetail dottyback live?
The Firetail dottyback lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Around Australia; coral and rocky reefs inshore.
How big does the Firetail dottyback get?
The Firetail dottyback grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Firetail dottyback dangerous to humans?
No, the Firetail dottyback is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Firetail dottyback edible?
The Firetail dottyback is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Firetail dottyback?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Firetail dottyback is one of 12,519 species in the app.