Common name: Ghost cardinalfish
General information
The Savay Damselfish, scientifically known as Nectamia savayensis, is a small and colorful marine fish that is not commonly found in the aquarium trade. This species is part of the Pomacentridae family, which includes other popular aquarium damselfishes. They are known for their hardiness and adaptability to various marine environments.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 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
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers dimly lit tanks
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys small crustaceans
- Social
- Pair Pairs are harmonious
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyCardinalfishApogonidae
- GenusCardinalfishNectamia
- SpeciesGhost cardinalfishNectamia savayensis (Günther, 1872)
- SynonymsApogon savayensis Günther, 1872Apogon savyensis Günther, 1872Ostorhinchus savayensis (Günther, 1872)Ostorhynchus savayensis (Günther, 1871)
Care
Savay Damselfish are relatively hardy and can adapt to a range of conditions, but they thrive best in well-established aquariums with stable water quality. They require ample swimming space and rockwork or coral for hiding and territorial purposes. A varied diet of meaty foods and high-quality marine flakes or pellets will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
Like many damselfish, the Savay Damselfish is an oviparous species, with females laying eggs that are then fertilized by the male. The male typically guards the nest until the eggs hatch. In an aquarium setting, breeding can occur if a stable pair is established and the environment is conducive to spawning.
Habitat
Nectamia savayensis is found in the Indo-Pacific region, often inhabiting coral reefs and lagoons. They are typically seen at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 20 meters. Their natural distribution includes areas around the Andaman Sea, the Philippines, and Indonesia.