Yellowtail Damselfish
$24.99
Description
The yellowtail damselfish (Microspathodon chrysurus) is a hardy, vibrant marine fish known for its contrasting dark body with iridescent blue spots and bright yellow tail. It is a territorial but popular choice for saltwater aquariums due to its adaptability and eye-catching coloration.Â
Physical Appearance
Adult yellowtail damselfish have a deep, grey-brown to bluish-black body covered in scattered, iridescent blue spots, with a striking yellow tail. Juveniles are entirely dark blue with more pronounced electric blue spots and a clear or yellow tail fin, with the yellow intensifying as they mature. They can grow up to a maximum size of about 8 inches (21 cm), though they are often smaller in aquariums.Â
Habitat and Diet
Originating from the Western Atlantic, including southern Florida, Bermuda, and the Caribbean to Brazil, the yellowtail damselfish inhabits coral and rock reefs, often in shallow waters. They favor areas with abundant hiding places like caves and crevices, and juveniles are frequently found among fire coral.Â
They are omnivores, feeding primarily on algae and the polyps of fire coral in the wild. In an aquarium setting, they will readily accept a varied diet of omnivorous foods, including high-quality marine flakes, pellets, and frozen options like mysis and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp.Â
Behavior and Temperament
Yellowtail damselfish are known for their lively personalities and are considered semi-aggressive, particularly as they mature and establish a territory. Unlike some more aggressive damselfish species, they are often less bothersome to other, non-similar tankmates, but can be highly territorial towards their own kind or other fish of a similar size and color.Â
To minimize aggression in an aquarium, it is recommended to provide ample live rock with plenty of hiding spaces and introduce them to the tank at the same time as a group, ideally in odd numbers. They are generally considered reef-safe and will not harm corals or invertebrates.Â
Aquarium Care
- Care Level:Â Easy, making them a good choice for beginner aquarists.
- Minimum Tank Size:Â 30 gallons is a recommended minimum for a single fish, with more space needed for groups or additional tankmates.
- Water Conditions: They thrive in stable saltwater conditions (temperature 74–80°F, pH 8.1–8.4, specific gravity 1.020–1.025).
- Lifespan:Â With proper care, they can live for 5-15 years in captivity.Â
Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4″ to 1-1/2″
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