Common name: Phoenix devil
General information
The Phoenix Damsel, scientifically known as Plectroglyphidodon phoenixensis, is a small and vibrant fish that adds a splash of color to any marine aquarium. They are known for their resilience and adaptability, making them suitable for a variety of tank conditions. The Phoenix Damsel has a striking appearance with a deep blue to black body and a distinctive yellow tail, which makes it a popular choice among reef hobbyists.
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 to 8.4
- Average size
- 12 cm (5″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable but needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Omnivore Algae, small inverts, and meaty foods
- Social
- Pair Pairs are less aggressive
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at corals and clams
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, especially in small tanks
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusDamselfishPlectroglyphidodon
- SpeciesPhoenix devilPlectroglyphidodon phoenixensis (Schultz, 1943)
- SynonymsAbudefduf phoenixensis Schultz, 1943Plectroglyphidodon phoenixen (Schultz, 1943)
Care
Phoenix Damsels are hardy fish that can thrive in a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods, including frozen, flake, and live foods. It's important to provide them with a varied diet to maintain their health and coloration. These fish can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics, so it's advisable to keep them singly or in a large enough tank to accommodate multiple individuals with plenty of hiding spaces.
Reproduction
In the wild, Phoenix Damsels are known to be egg-layers, with the male preparing a nesting site and defending it vigorously. In the aquarium, breeding is less common, but with the right conditions, it is possible for hobbyists to witness their reproductive behavior.
Habitat
Plectroglyphidodon phoenixensis is native to the Western Pacific, where it is typically found in shallow, coral-rich areas and lagoons. They are often seen darting among the corals and rocks, seeking shelter and foraging for food. In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with live rock and coral can provide them with the environmental enrichment they need.