VU

Pale Dottyback

Pseudochromis pesi

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Pale Dottyback faces severe pressure from the marine aquarium trade, where its striking coloration makes it highly sought after by collectors. Coral reef degradation throughout its limited range in the Western Pacific has reduced available habitat, while ocean acidification threatens the coral ecosystems it depends on. Climate change-induced coral bleaching events have become increasingly frequent, further compromising the species' already restricted habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Pale Dottyback inhabits coral reefs and rocky outcrops in shallow tropical waters of the Western Pacific. It typically shelters among coral crevices and caves at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters, preferring areas with abundant coral growth and complex reef structure.

MARINE· major

Threatened in Egypt

Calidris ferrugineaVU

Calidris ferruginea

Declining
EN

Anarrhinum pubescens

Declining
CR

Rosa arabica

Declining
small mallowVU

small mallow

Malva pusilla

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Pale Dottyback classified as Vulnerable?
Pale Dottyback is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Pale Dottyback faces severe pressure from the marine aquarium trade, where its striking coloration makes it highly sought after by collectors. Coral reef degradation throughout its limited range in the Western Pacific has reduced available habitat, while ocean acidification threatens the coral ecosystems it depends on. Climate change-induced coral bleaching events have become increasingly frequent, further compromising the species' already restricted habitat.
Where does Pale Dottyback live?
Pale Dottyback occurs in Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Mozambique, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa (plus 1 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Pale Dottyback?
The main threats to Pale Dottyback are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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