Common name: Yellowtail damsel

Scientific name: Pomacentrus trichrourus Günther, 1867
A juvenile Pailtail Damsel (Pomacentrus trichrourus) in the Red Sea, EgyptReticulated damsel
A juvenile Pailtail Damsel (Pomacentrus trichrourus) in the Red Sea, EgyptReticulated 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

  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
    Yellowtail damsel
    Pomacentrus trichrourus Günther, 1867
  8. Synonyms
    Pomacentrus trichopterus Günther, 1867
    Pomacentrus trichopterus Playfair, 1891
    Pomacentrus trichorus Günther, 1867
    Pomacentrus trichourus Günther, 1867
    Pomacentrus trichrous Günther, 1867
    Pomocentrus 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.