Description
Skunk Pygmy Basslet (Pseudochromis bitaeniatus)
Overview
The Skunk Pygmy Basslet is a beautifully patterned reef fish known for its soft pink to peach body accented by a bold horizontal stripe running from the snout to the tail. Graceful and hardy, this small, active fish adds subtle elegance and personality to any reef or community aquarium.
Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including Indonesia, the Maldives, and surrounding waters, this species inhabits coral reefs and rocky slopes where it shelters in crevices and overhangs.
Feeding
A carnivorous species that thrives on a diet of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and high-quality frozen or pellet diets. Feed once or twice daily for vibrant coloration and optimal health.
Tank Mates
Generally peaceful for a dottyback, the Skunk Pygmy Basslet can coexist with most community fish, including gobies, wrasses, and clownfish. Avoid housing with very timid fish or other Pseudochromis species in smaller aquariums, as mild territorial behavior may occur.
Aggression
Mildly territorial but less aggressive than many other dottybacks. Providing rockwork, caves, and hiding places allows it to establish territory and coexist peacefully with tank mates.
Experience Level
Ideal for beginner to intermediate aquarists. Hardy, reef-safe, and adaptable, the Skunk Pygmy Basslet thrives in a stable marine system and makes a colorful, easy-care addition to most aquariums.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 75°F – 80°F (24°C – 27°C)
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Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025 SG
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pH: 8.1 – 8.4
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Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH
Peaceful, hardy, and beautifully marked, the Skunk Pygmy Basslet is a fantastic choice for aquarists seeking a small, colorful, and reef-safe fish for their marine setup.
