Common name: Yellowtail damsel
General information
The Blueback Damsel, Pomacentrus trichrourus, is a small and vibrant member of the damselfish family. It is known for its striking coloration, with a deep blue back that fades to a yellowish belly. This species is relatively peaceful compared to other damselfish and can be a good choice for a community reef aquarium.
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
- Moderate to easy Adaptable but needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet; flakes, pellets, and frozen
- Social
- School Best in groups, more confident
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at slow-moving fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusDamselfishPomacentrus
- SpeciesYellowtail damselPomacentrus trichrourus Günther, 1867
- SynonymsPomacentrus trichopterus Günther, 1867Pomacentrus trichopterus Playfair, 1891Pomacentrus trichorus Günther, 1867Pomacentrus trichourus Günther, 1867Pomacentrus trichrous Günther, 1867Pomocentrus trichourus Günther, 1867
Care
Blueback Damsels are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. A varied diet of meaty foods, algae, and high-quality flake or pellet food will help maintain their colors and health.
Reproduction
Like many damselfish, Blueback Damsels are known to be territorial during breeding. They lay their eggs in a prepared nest on a flat surface, where the male will guard and tend to the eggs until they hatch. Breeding in captivity is possible with the right conditions and a well-matched pair.
Habitat
Blueback Damsels are found in the Western Pacific, from Indonesia to the Solomon Islands, and north to Japan. They prefer shallow, coral-rich areas and lagoons, often swimming in small groups or pairs near the reef structure.