Common name: Yellowhead damselfish

Scientific name: Pomacentrus aurifrons Allen, 2004

General information

The Golden Damselfish, Pomacentrus aurifrons, is a small and vibrant fish that adds a splash of color to any reef aquarium. It is known for its bright yellow forehead, which fades into a deep blue or purple towards the back of the body. This species is relatively peaceful compared to some of its more aggressive damselfish relatives, making it a suitable choice for a community tank.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
9 cm (3½″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Prefers complex rockwork.
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet of meaty foods and algae.
Social
Harem Best kept in groups, with more females.
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive May be territorial.
Captive bred
Yes Bred in home aquariums.

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
    Pomacentrus
  7. Species
    Yellowhead damselfish
    Pomacentrus aurifrons Allen, 2004

Care

Golden Damselfish are hardy and adaptable, making them ideal for both novice and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. A varied diet of small meaty foods, algae, and high-quality flake or pellet foods will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.

Reproduction

Like many damselfish, Pomacentrus aurifrons are known to be territorial during breeding. They lay their eggs on a flat surface, and the male will guard and tend to the eggs until they hatch. The larvae are planktonic initially before settling down and growing into juveniles.

Habitat

Golden Damselfish are native to the Western Pacific, where they inhabit coral-rich areas and lagoons. They are often found at depths ranging from 1 to 12 meters, associating with branching corals like Acropora. Their natural range includes areas from the Great Barrier Reef to the Solomon Islands.