Common name: Yellowtail demoiselle
General information
The Yellowtail Damselfish, Neopomacentrus azysron, is a small and vibrant fish that adds a splash of color to any marine aquarium. It is known for its striking blue body and contrasting yellow tail, which is where it gets its common name. This species is relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both novice and experienced aquarists.
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 Adaptable but needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae and meaty foods
- Social
- School Best in groups, can be shy solo
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusNeon damselfishNeopomacentrus
- SpeciesYellowtail demoiselleNeopomacentrus azysron (Bleeker, 1877)
- SynonymsAbudefduf melanocarpus Fowler & Bean, 1928Pomacentrus azysron Bleeker, 1877
Care
Yellowtail Damselfish are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of tank conditions, but they do best in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. They can be territorial, especially towards their own kind, so it's important to monitor aggression if keeping multiple individuals. A varied diet of meaty foods, algae, and high-quality prepared foods will keep them healthy and maintain their bright coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Yellowtail Damselfish are known to be territorial when breeding. They lay their eggs in nests which are zealously guarded by the male until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur but raising the fry can be challenging due to their small size and specific dietary needs.
Habitat
Neopomacentrus azysron is found in the Indo-West Pacific region, including reefs in the Philippines, Indonesia, and northern Australia. They typically inhabit shallow waters where they can be seen darting among the coral and rock formations.