Common name: Golden damsel
General information
The Golden Damselfish, Amblyglyphidodon aureus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds a splash of color to any reef aquarium. It is known for its striking golden-yellow coloration and is a member of the family Pomacentridae. This species is relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable but needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae and meaty foods
- Social
- School Best in groups, can be aggressive solo
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusGolden damselfishAmblyglyphidodon
- SpeciesGolden damselAmblyglyphidodon aureus (Cuvier, 1830)
- SynonymsAbudefduf aureus (Cuvier, 1830)Amblygliphidodon aureus (Cuvier, 1830)Glyphisodon aureus Cuvier, 1830
Care
Golden Damselfish are relatively easy to care for. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics, so it's important to provide ample space and hiding places to minimize aggression. A varied diet of meaty foods, herbivore flakes, and pellets will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Golden Damselfish are known to form breeding pairs or small groups. They are oviparous, with females laying eggs on a flat surface, which are then fertilized by the male. The male guards the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur but raising the fry can be challenging due to their planktonic larval stage.
Habitat
Amblyglyphidodon aureus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Andaman Sea to the western Pacific Ocean. They prefer shallow, coral-rich areas and lagoons, often found at depths ranging from 1 to 12 meters. Their natural habitat includes areas with strong water movement and abundant coral growth.