Common name: Multispine damselfish

Scientific name: Neoglyphidodon polyacanthus (Ogilby, 1889)

General information

The Blackback Butterflyfish, Neoglyphidodon polyacanthus, is a striking species known for its bold coloration and active behavior. This species is not as commonly kept as some other butterflyfish due to its more challenging care requirements and potential aggressiveness. Juveniles display a vibrant blue color with a black dorsal area which transitions to a more subdued coloration with age.

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
17 cm (7″)
Care level
Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality.
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet promotes health.
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
Reefsafe
No May nip at corals/inverts.
Aggression
Semi aggresive Aggressive, especially as adult.
Captive bred
No

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
    Damsel Fish
    Neoglyphidodon
  7. Species
    Multispine damselfish
    Neoglyphidodon polyacanthus (Ogilby, 1889)
  8. Synonyms
    Glyphidodon polyacanthus Ogilby, 1889
    Glyphisodon polyacanthus Ogilby, 1889
    Paraglyphidodon polyacanthus (Ogilby, 1889)

Care

Neoglyphidodon polyacanthus can be a challenging species to keep in home aquariums. They require a larger tank with plenty of swimming space and well-established live rock for grazing and hiding. They are not considered reef-safe as they have a tendency to nip at corals and sessile invertebrates. A varied diet of meaty foods, marine flakes, and pellets is necessary for their health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blackback Butterflyfish form monogamous pairs during breeding. They are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. Breeding them in captivity is quite difficult and not commonly achieved by hobbyists.

Habitat

This species is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, typically at depths of 1 to 30 meters. They are often observed in pairs or small groups, swimming actively during the day.