Firetail Dottyback

Overview

The Firetail Dottyback (Labracinus cyclophthalmus) is one of the largest members of the Pseudochromidae family, known for its striking appearance and notably aggressive temperament. Widely distributed across the Western Pacific, this species is frequently found in tropical reef environments where it seeks shelter among rocks and coral.

Distribution & habitat

This species is widely distributed throughout the Indo-Malayan Archipelago, ranging from southern Japan and the Philippines south to the Northwest Shelf of Australia, and extending east to Papua New Guinea and New Ireland. It typically inhabits shallow reef areas, including reef flats, slopes, and tide pools, often in silty environments at depths up to 20 meters. They are commonly found near the shelter of coral or rock formations, where they navigate through gutters and passages.

Appearance

The Firetail Dottyback is characterized by a dark reddish-brown body often marked with thin, longitudinal dark lines and pale, narrow vertical bars. A defining feature is its vibrant, bright red tail, which contrasts sharply with its body. The species also possesses a red eye with a distinct dark curved marking along the rear rim of the orbit, and its fins often feature a subtle blue trim.

Biology & behavior

Known for being highly territorial and aggressive, this fish is often described as a "fire-tail devil" due to its combative nature toward other marine life. Despite this aggression, it can be somewhat shy and relies on crevices and caves for protection. It is a hermaphroditic species, capable of changing sex from female to male when necessary. They are typically observed in small, mixed-sex groups in the wild.