Common name: Golden gregory

General information

The Golden Gregory, Stegastes aureus, is a species of damselfish that is not as commonly found in the aquarium trade as its clownfish cousins. It is known for its striking yellow coloration and territorial behavior. This species is part of the Pomacentridae family, which includes other damselfishes and clownfishes.

Care

Golden Gregorys are hardy fish that can adapt to a range of conditions, but they thrive best in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and territorial establishment. They can be aggressive, especially towards conspecifics and smaller fish, so careful consideration of tank mates is essential. A varied diet of meaty foods and herbivore preparations will keep them healthy.

Reproduction

Like many damselfishes, Golden Gregorys are oviparous, with females laying eggs on a flat surface which are then fertilized by the male. The male guards the nest and aerates the eggs until they hatch. Breeding in captivity can be challenging due to their territorial nature.

Habitat

Stegastes aureus is found in the Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. They prefer shallow reefs and rocky areas, often establishing territories around stony corals or rocky substrates.