Common name: Goldtail demoiselle

General information

The Yellowtail Damselfish, Chrysiptera parasema, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamic movement to a reef aquarium. Known for its striking blue body and contrasting yellow tail, this species is a favorite among aquarists for its hardiness and relatively peaceful demeanor compared to other damselfish.

Native to the Western Pacific, the Yellowtail Damselfish is often found in shallow, coral-rich areas and lagoons. It is a small species, typically reaching about 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length, which makes it suitable for smaller reef tanks as well.

Care

Chrysiptera parasema is an adaptable species that can thrive in a variety of tank conditions. They prefer well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. While they are generally peaceful, they can become territorial, especially during breeding. It's best to keep them with other non-aggressive fish or in a species-only setup.

A varied diet of meaty foods, herbivore flakes, and pellets is recommended to maintain their health and coloration. They are known to accept a wide range of foods, which makes them easy to feed.

Reproduction

Yellowtail Damselfish are egg-layers, with the male preparing a nesting site where the female will deposit her eggs. The male then guards and tends to the eggs until they hatch. In the home aquarium, breeding can occur if the environment is stable and the fish are well-fed, but raising the fry can be challenging.

Habitat

In the wild, Chrysiptera parasema is commonly found in the Western Pacific, including areas like the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, usually at depths of up to 40 feet (12 meters), where they can be seen darting among the corals and rocks.