Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Peaceful

They are peaceful, energetic schooling fish that add constant motion to the tank. They establish a gentle pecking order without inflicting serious harm on one another. Their presence acts as a soothing signal to other cautious reef inhabitants.

Diet

Omnivore

They are omnivorous planktivores that feed continuously in the water column. Provide a varied diet of high-quality marine flakes, small pellets, and frozen mysis shrimp. Supplementing with cyclops and finely chopped seafood maintains their vibrant coloration.

Sex ratio

School

Keeping them in a large odd-numbered school (seven or more) diffuses internal hierarchy squabbles. There are no obvious external sexual dimorphisms between males and females. A large group ensures a peaceful dynamic and a spectacular visual display.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

Due to their active metabolism, they should be fed small amounts three times a day. Frequent, tiny meals mimic their natural continuous feeding behavior on the reef. Ensure all food is consumed rapidly to prevent nutrient spikes.

Bioload

This small marine damselfish produces a relatively low bioload. They are typically kept in schools, so their cumulative bioload necessitates efficient protein skimming. Regular maintenance and water changes keep the reef environment stable.

Flow

Strong

They thrive in areas of strong, turbulent water movement simulating the upper reef slopes. High flow keeps their food suspended in the water column longer for easy grazing. It also encourages their natural schooling behavior against the current.

Jump risk

No

Reproduction

Oviparous

They are nest builders that lay their eggs on hard substrates or coral rubble. The male vigorously guards and fans the nest until the eggs hatch. Raising the microscopic fry in captivity is extremely difficult due to their dietary requirements.

Compatibility & tankmates

Peaceful

They are reef-safe and exceptionally peaceful towards other fish and invertebrates. They make fantastic dither fish, encouraging shyer species to come out into the open. Avoid housing them with large, aggressive predatory fish that may eat them.

Tank level

Middle

They occupy the mid-to-upper levels of the aquarium almost exclusively. They prefer swimming in the open water column above the rockwork. Ample unobstructed swimming space is essential for a healthy school.