Common name: Rolland's demoiselle

Scientific name: Chrysiptera rollandi (Whitley, 1961)
Rolland's Damselfish, Chrysiptera rollandi, also known as Black Cap Damselfish. This variety and coloring is from VanuatuFiji Yellow Head damsel Chrysiptera rollandi on a coral reef.
Rollands Riffbarsch (Chrysiptera rollandiFiji Yellow Head damsel Chrysiptera rollandi on a coral reef.

General information

Rolland's Demoiselle, scientifically known as Chrysiptera rollandi, is a vibrant and active fish that adds both color and dynamism to a saltwater aquarium. It is characterized by its striking blue body and contrasting black tail, which make it a visually appealing addition to any reef tank. This species is relatively small, making it a suitable choice for various aquarium sizes.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 26 °C (75 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
8 cm (3″)
Care level
Easy Hardy and adaptable
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet; flakes, pellets, frozen
Social
Pair Pairs or small groups preferred
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
Yes Available as captive-bred

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Damselfish
    Pomacentridae
  6. Genus
    Damselfish
    Chrysiptera
  7. Species
    Rolland's demoiselle
    Chrysiptera rollandi (Whitley, 1961)
  8. Synonyms
    Chromis rollandi Whitley, 1961
    Glyphidodontops rollandi (Whitley, 1961)

Care

Chrysiptera rollandi is known for its hardiness and adaptability, which makes it a good candidate for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. A varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp, supplemented with high-quality flake or pellet food, will help maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

Like many damselfish, Rolland's Demoiselle is an oviparous species, with the female laying eggs that are then fertilized by the male. The eggs are typically attached to a substrate and guarded by the male until they hatch. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging but rewarding for dedicated hobbyists.

Habitat

Chrysiptera rollandi is native to the Western Pacific, where it is commonly found in shallow reef environments. They prefer areas with abundant coral growth and are often observed darting among the branches of stony corals and anemones.