Did you know?
Although most damselfish could fit in the palm of your hand, they’re still fascinating fish with bags of personality. They’re known to be territorial fish that will fiercely defend their feeding and mating territories.
With over 250 species found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, they are a wonderfully diverse and fascinating group of fish in the ocean.
Species
What is a Damselfish?
Damselfish belong to the Pomacentridae family and are known for their bold colours, territorial behaviour, and adaptability.
Many species of damselfish form symbiotic relationships with coral reefs, while others thrive in rockier environments or even freshwater habitats.
Despite their small size, ranging from a few centimetres to around 30 cm in larger species, they are highly defensive of their homes and will chase away much larger intruders!
Habitat
Where do damselfish typically live?
These energetic fish can be found across the globe, primarily in warm coastal waters, coral reefs, and rocky shallows. While most are marine species, some can survive in brackish or freshwater environments.
Behaviour
The feisty side of damselfish
Damselfish are notoriously territorial, often standing their ground against much larger fish. In the wild, they protect their feeding grounds or nesting areas with determination, even nipping at divers who get too close!
Diet
These courageous little fish have a varied diet, depending on their habitat. Most damselfish feed on plankton, algae, and small invertebrates, playing a key role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by keeping algae growth in check.
Meet the damselfish at Deep Sea World
Yellow-tailed damsel
This species is easily recognised by its brilliant blue body and bright yellow tail. Despite its small size of about 7cm, it has a bold, feisty temperament and will defend its territory fiercely. Found in the Indo-Pacific, it thrives in rocky reef environments, darting among crevices to avoid predators. You can catch a glimpse of the yellow-tailed damsel on display in the Njari Exhibit.
Come and see for yourself!
Want to see the dazzling colours and bold personalities of damselfish up close? You can find them swimming around in our Njari, Krakatoa, and Coral Exhibits.
Book your visit today and discover why these tiny titans are some of the ocean’s most fascinating fish!
Did you know?
Although most damselfish could fit in the palm of your hand, they’re still fascinating fish with bags of personality. They’re known to be territorial fish that will fiercely defend their feeding and mating territories.
Type
Fish
Size
Up to 30cm
What do they eat
plankton, algae, and small invertebrates
Water type
Typically live in warm coastal waters, coral reefs, and rocky shallows
Where are we
Mostly found in Indo-Pacific regions
See Us At
Coral