Common name: Yellowtail demoiselle

Scientific name: Neopomacentrus azysron (Bleeker, 1877)
Yellowtail damselfish swimming on reefYellowtail Damselfish (Microspathodon chrysurus) Juvenile - Grenada
yellow tail damsel fish close up in an aquariumJuvenile Yellowtail Damselfish (Jewelfish) on the reef

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

  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
    Neon damselfish
    Neopomacentrus
  7. Species
    Yellowtail demoiselle
    Neopomacentrus azysron (Bleeker, 1877)
  8. Synonyms
    Abudefduf melanocarpus Fowler & Bean, 1928
    Pomacentrus 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.