Sunrise Dottyback

The Sunrise Dottyback (Pseudochromis flavivertex) is a diminutive and visually striking species within the Pseudochromidae family. This species is predominantly found in the Western Pacific, notably within the 🌊 Red Sea, as well as in the marine environments surrounding 🇮🇩 Indonesia, the 🇵🇭 Philippines, and Palau.

The Sunrise Dottyback reaches an approximate maximum size of 7.5 cm (3 inches). It is characterized by its elongated body, pointed snout, sizable head, and prominent dorsal fin. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males displaying a more elongated body structure and more vivid coloration compared to females.

The coloration of the Sunrise Dottyback is particularly notable, featuring a vibrant yellow-orange body adorned with a distinctive black spot near the tail. The fins are generally a bright blue, offering a striking contrast to the body coloration. Juvenile specimens may present slightly different hues, typically showcasing a more subdued orange-yellow body and a thin blue stripe along the body.

Sunrise Dottybacks are solitary and can exhibit territorial behaviors, especially towards conspecifics.

As an omnivorous species, the Sunrise Dottyback's diet comprises small crustaceans, plankton, and other minute marine organisms.