Common name: Lemon Damsel

Scientific name: Pomacentrus moluccensis Bleeker, 1853

General Information

The Lemon Damsel (Pomacentrus moluccensis) is a vibrant and hardy species popular among aquarium enthusiasts. Known for their striking lemon-yellow coloration, these fish are a lively addition to any marine aquarium. They are native to the Indo-Pacific region, where they inhabit coral reefs and lagoons. Their bright color and active nature make them a favorite for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Lemon Damsels play a role in the aquarium trade due to their ease of care and adaptability to different tank environments. They are often recommended for beginners due to their resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions. In the wild, they contribute to the biodiversity of reef ecosystems, often seen darting among corals and rocky outcrops.

Details

Estimated price
Affordable
Recommended minimum tank volume
100 liter (26 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
9 cm (3½″)
Care level
Easy
Diet
Omnivore Enjoys a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and frozen foods
Social
School Best kept in small groups to reduce aggression
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Semi aggresive Territorial, especially in smaller tanks
Captive bred
Yes
IUCN Red List
EX
EW
CR
EN
VU
NT
LC

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
    Lemon Damsel
    Pomacentrus moluccensis Bleeker, 1853
  8. Synonyms
    Pomacentrus popei Evermann & Seale, 1907
    Pomacentrus sufflavus Whitley, 1927
  9. Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Care

Caring for Lemon Damsels is straightforward, making them ideal for novice aquarists. They require a well-maintained marine aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and exploring. These fish are relatively small, so they do not need large tanks, but they do appreciate space to swim. Ensure stable water conditions to keep them healthy and vibrant.

Diet and Feeding

Lemon Damsels are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods in the wild, including algae, plankton, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they should be provided with a balanced diet consisting of high-quality marine flakes, pellets, and frozen foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. Regular feeding helps maintain their bright coloration and energy levels.

Behavior and Compatibility

These damselfish are semi-aggressive, particularly when establishing territory. They are best kept with other semi-aggressive species or in larger tanks to minimize territorial disputes. Despite their feisty nature, they are generally peaceful with non-threatening tank mates and can be a vibrant addition to a community tank.

Reproduction

Breeding Lemon Damsels in captivity is possible and contributes to sustainable aquarium practices. They are egg-layers, typically spawning on flat surfaces. The male guards the eggs until they hatch, showing parental care that is fascinating to observe.

Health and Common Issues

Lemon Damsels are hardy, but like all marine fish, they require stable water conditions and a balanced diet to prevent stress-related diseases. Regular water changes and monitoring of water parameters are essential to their health.

Habitat

In the wild, Lemon Damsels are found in the warm, shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific. They prefer coral-rich environments with plenty of hiding spots and moderate water flow. These conditions can be replicated in a home aquarium to keep them comfortable and thriving.