---
title: Lyretail Dottyback (Pseudochromis dixurus)
scientific_name: Pseudochromis dixurus
common_name: Lyretail Dottyback
taxon: Dottyback
conservation_status: LC - Least Concern
published: 2024-11-07T20:40:08.647Z
updated: 2025-11-25T13:58:09.000Z
tags: Lyretail Dottyback, Pseudochromis dixurus, Dottyback, Red Sea, Marine Life, Diving
url: https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/dottyback/lyretail-dottyback
---

# Lyretail Dottyback (*Pseudochromis dixurus*)

**Taxon:** Dottyback (*Pseudochromidae*)  
**Conservation Status:** LC - Least Concern  


The Pseudochromis dixurus, commonly known as the fork-tail dottyback, is a species of ray-finned fish belonging to the family Pseudochromidae. It is found predominantly in the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. The genus name "Pseudochromis" derives from Greek, with "pseudes" meaning false and "chromis" referring to a type of fish, possibly a perch.

This species can attain a length of up to 9 cm (3.5 inches). It is marine and reef-associated, residing at depths ranging from 5 to 60 meters. Pseudochromis dixurus thrives in tropical environments and is typically located in caves or around rocks covered with silt.

The species exhibits a distinct color phase: mature individuals possess a dark grey-brown coloration, while younger specimens may display a yellow caudal fin with a prominent dark stripe.

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*Source: [Red Sea Creatures](https://redseacreatures.com/taxon/fishes/bony-fishes/dottyback/lyretail-dottyback)*
*Updated: November 25, 2025*