Black Neon (P. aldabraensis x springeri)

ORA has successfully produced Neon dottybacks (P. aldabraensis) and Springeri dottybacks (P. springeri) for more than a decade. On the aggression spectrum, these two species rank with the toughest, but they can make great additions to reef aquariums when stocked with appropriate tankmates.  After our success with the Indigo Dottyback, the first hybrid dottyback available to aquarium hobbyists, we became interested in other dottyback hybridization possibilities.  We noted many similarities between the morphology and behavior of Neon and Springeri Dottybacks so we began our work.  After several attempts to create a harmonious pair we finally saw success.  The result, the Black Neon Dottyback, is a fish that inherits traits from both parent species and an ability to change coloration on its flanks from nearly jet black to a rust color, depending on mood and environment.  This hybrid’s appearance is strikingly similar to P. dutoiti, which many believe is a subspecies of the Neon dottyback.  Could P. dutoiti be the result of natural hybridization between the Neon Dottyback and the Springeri dottyback?  It is a question we believe is worth some investigating.