Common name: Phoenix devil

Scientific name: Plectroglyphidodon phoenixensis (Schultz, 1943)

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

  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
    Damselfish
    Plectroglyphidodon
  7. Species
    Phoenix devil
    Plectroglyphidodon phoenixensis (Schultz, 1943)
  8. Synonyms
    Abudefduf phoenixensis Schultz, 1943
    Plectroglyphidodon 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.