Springer's Damselfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Native to the tropical Western Pacific, ranging through Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Moluccas. Inhabits coastal reefs rich in coral growth and rubble areas down to 30 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Part of the genus Chrysiptera. Very small size, reaching a maximum length of only 5.5 cm (2.2 inches). Features a compressed body and short snout.

Social Behavior: Semi-aggressive but exceptionally peaceful for a damselfish. Highly tolerant of tankmates and rarely displays unprovoked aggression.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Solid deep velvet-blue body color, with subtle bright blue highlights on the head. No visible differences between males and females.

Aquarium Setup: Needs a tank of at least 100 liters with plenty of live rock to provide small crevices and caves. 100% reef-safe.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. Readily eats frozen mysis, brine shrimp, flakes, and small pellets. Highly valued for actively preying on pest red flatworms (Convolutriloba retrogemma).

Water Quality: Highly adaptable and hardy. Typical parameters: temperature 24-27°C (75-81°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025, GH 15-25, and KH 8-12.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent community fish. Can be kept with a wide variety of peaceful reef species. Defends its immediate shelter but does not hunt or harass other fish.

Aquarium Reproduction: Rare but possible. Adhesive eggs are deposited in rocky caves and guarded aggressively by the male.

Risks and Diseases: Very hardy and disease-resistant. The main risk is misidentifying it with other similar looking blue damselfish that are far more aggressive.