Reeflings

Common name: Yellowfin damsel

Scientific name: Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus Allen & Randall, 1980

General information

The Yellowback Fusilier Damselfish, Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its striking yellow dorsal area and silver to white body, which can make it a standout addition to any reef tank. They are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for intermediate 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
12 cm (5″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Adaptable but needs hiding spots
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae, meaty foods
Social
School Best in groups, can be territorial
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive Territorial, may nip at slow fish
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perciformes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Damselfish
    Pomacentridae
  6. Genus
    Golden damselfish
    Amblyglyphidodon
  7. Species
    Yellowfin damsel
    Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus Allen & Randall, 1980

Care

Yellowback Fusilier Damselfish are moderately easy to care for but do require a spacious tank to accommodate their active swimming behavior. They are best kept in groups and need plenty of open water for swimming as well as hiding places among live rock. A varied diet of meaty foods, high-quality marine flake, and frozen preparations will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus forms breeding pairs during the spawning season. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with optimal conditions, they may spawn. The male will prepare a nesting site and court the female, who will lay the eggs for the male to fertilize and guard.

Habitat

Yellowback Fusilier Damselfish are found in the Western Pacific, from Indonesia to the Solomon Islands, and north to the Ryukyu Islands. They inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoon and seaward reefs, usually in mid-water above the reef, and can be found at depths ranging from 2 to 20 meters.