Common name: Yellowhead damselfish
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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusDamselfishPomacentrus
- SpeciesYellowhead damselfishPomacentrus 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.