Common name: Whitetail damsel
General information
The Yellowtail Damselfish, Pomacentrus chrysurus, is a small and vibrant fish that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. Known for its striking yellow tail and blue body, it adds a splash of color to any tank. This species is relatively hardy and can be a good choice for both beginner and advanced 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
- 8 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Easy Hardy and adaptable
- Diet
- Omnivore Flakes, pellets, and frozen foods
- Social
- School Best in groups, peaceful schooling
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Peaceful
- Captive bred
- Yes Available as captive-bred
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusDamselfishPomacentrus
- SpeciesWhitetail damselPomacentrus chrysurus Cuvier, 1830
- SynonymsGlyphidodon luteocaudatus Saville-Kent, 1893Pomacentrus flavicauda Whitley, 1928Pomacentrus hogoleuensis Hombron & Jacquinot, 1853Pomacentrus luteocaudatus (Saville-Kent, 1893)Pomacentrus rhodonotatus Bleeker, 1853Pomacentrus rhodonotatus Cuvier, 1830Pomacentrus rhodonotus Bleeker, 1853
Care
Yellowtail Damselfish are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of tank conditions, but they do best in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. They are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods, including flake, frozen, and live foods. It's important to maintain good water quality and stable parameters to keep these fish healthy.
Reproduction
In the wild, Yellowtail Damselfish are known to be territorial and will vigorously defend their breeding sites. They lay their eggs on flat surfaces, and the males typically guard the eggs until they hatch. In the home aquarium, breeding can occur, but raising the fry can be challenging due to their small size and specific dietary needs.
Habitat
Pomacentrus chrysurus is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the central Pacific, including the Red Sea, Indonesia, and Australia. They inhabit coral-rich areas and lagoons, usually at depths of 2 to 15 meters. In the aquarium, replicating their natural environment with live rock structures and moderate water flow can help promote natural behaviors.