Common name: Starcki Damsel

General Information

The Starcki Damsel, scientifically known as Chrysiptera starcki, is a stunning addition to any marine aquarium. This vibrant fish is celebrated for its striking blue body with bright yellow accents on its dorsal fin and tail, making it a visually captivating choice for aquarists. Native to the Western Pacific, particularly around the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea, this species thrives in reef environments.

In the aquarium trade, the Starcki Damsel is appreciated not only for its beauty but also for its resilience and adaptability. It is a popular choice among hobbyists due to its hardiness and relatively peaceful nature compared to other damselfish. This species is an excellent candidate for both novice and experienced aquarists interested in adding a splash of color to their tanks.

Care

Starcki Damsel is known for its adaptability and ease of care. It thrives in a well-maintained reef aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. This species prefers stable water conditions and benefits from a tank setup that mimics its natural reef habitat. A tank of at least 100 liters is recommended to provide ample swimming space and to accommodate its semi-aggressive nature.

To enhance its vibrant colors and ensure its health, maintain high water quality and provide a varied diet. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are essential to keep this species thriving.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Starcki Damsel is an omnivore, feeding on a mix of algae, plankton, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet to meet their nutritional needs. High-quality flakes or pellets, along with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp, are suitable choices.

Feed them once or twice daily, ensuring they consume all food within a few minutes to maintain water quality. Providing a balanced diet with occasional supplements can help enhance their coloration and vitality.

Behavior and Compatibility

Starcki Damsel is generally peaceful but can exhibit semi-aggressive behavior, especially towards conspecifics or similarly shaped fish. They are best kept singly or in a large tank with plenty of hiding spaces to minimize territorial disputes.

This species is reef-safe and can coexist with a variety of tank mates, including other peaceful fish and invertebrates. However, care should be taken when introducing them to tanks with more aggressive species.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Starcki Damsel can live for several years in captivity. They are generally hardy but can be susceptible to common marine diseases like ich. Quarantine new additions and maintain high water quality to prevent outbreaks.

When selecting a Starcki Damsel, look for individuals with vibrant colors and active behavior. Avoid fish that appear lethargic or have visible signs of distress or disease.

Habitat

Starcki Damsel is found in the coral reefs of the Western Pacific, particularly around the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. They inhabit shallow reef environments, often seen darting among coral heads and rocky outcrops. In captivity, replicating these conditions with live rock and stable water parameters will help them thrive.