Common name: Regal demoiselle
General information
The Regal Demoiselle, scientifically known as Neopomacentrus cyanomos, is a small and vibrant fish that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is known for its striking blue coloration, which can add a pop of color to any marine aquarium. They are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both beginner 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 to aquarium life
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet, accepts flakes
- Social
- School Best in groups of 5+
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes Bred in home aquariums
- Conservation statusSource: IUCN Red List
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusNeon damselfishNeopomacentrus
- SpeciesRegal demoiselleNeopomacentrus cyanomos (Bleeker, 1856)
- SynonymsNeopomacentrus cyanomus (Bleeker, 1856)Pomacentrus cyanomos Bleeker, 1856Pomacentrus leucosphyrus Fowler, 1904Pomacentrus prateri Fowler, 1928
Care
Regal Demoiselles are relatively easy to care for. They thrive in well-established aquariums with stable water conditions and plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, and frozen preparations. It's important to feed them a balanced diet to maintain their vivid coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Regal Demoiselles form breeding pairs during the spawning season. They lay their eggs on substrates, which are then guarded by the male until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding is less common but can occur if the environment is stable and the fish are well-fed.
Habitat
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Regal Demoiselles are found in shallow, tropical coral reefs. They prefer areas with abundant coral growth and are often observed in lagoons and outer reef slopes. In the aquarium, they require similar conditions with plenty of live rock and space to swim.
Geographical distribution includes areas from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Central Pacific, including the Great Barrier Reef and Micronesia.