Blue Damsel

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Pomacentrus melanochir
• Common Name: Blue Damsel
• Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5–8 years in captivity
• Habitat:
  • Native to the Western Pacific, including Indonesia and the Philippines
  • Typically inhabits shallow reef environments, often in coral rubble zones

  • Found at depths ranging from 1–20 meters

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a single fish
  Larger tanks recommended for multiple specimens or community setups
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH
• Temperament:
  • Semi-aggressive, particularly in smaller tanks or when establishing territory
  • May nip at more peaceful or smaller fish

  • Best housed with other semi-aggressive species or in larger tanks with lots of hiding spots

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous
• Enjoys:
  • High-quality marine flakes and pellets
  • Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp
  • Marine algae or spirulina-based foods

• Feed once or twice daily

Breeding & Spawning

• Egg-layers, with male guarding the eggs
• Mating involves courtship dances and territory preparation
• Eggs are laid on flat surfaces like rocks or tank glass

• Not commonly bred in home aquariums but possible with the right setup

Appearance

• Deep electric blue body with a slightly metallic sheen
• Slender, torpedo-shaped body

• Color may darken slightly when stressed or during territorial behavior

Distinctive Features

• Extremely vivid blue coloration that stands out in marine aquariums
• Hardy and well-suited for beginner saltwater aquarists
• Territorial personality adds activity and interaction to the tank

• Commonly used to add bold color contrast in reef environments