Green Damsel

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Neopomacentrus nemurus
• Common Name: Green Damsel
• Adult Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 5–8 years in captivity with proper care
• Habitat:
  • Found in Indo-Pacific regions, including coral reefs and lagoons
  • Prefers shallow, sheltered reef environments and lagoons

  • Typically seen around reefs, rock crevices, and coastal areas

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a single fish
  Larger tanks (30+ gallons) recommended for groups
• Ideal Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 8.1–8.4
• Water Hardness: 8–12 dKH
• Temperament:
  • Semi-aggressive, especially toward conspecifics or smaller tank mates
  • Can be territorial in small tanks

  • Best kept with other similarly sized, semi-aggressive fish or in community tanks with plenty of space and hiding spots

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous
• Will thrive on:
  • High-quality marine flakes and pellets
  • Frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and plankton
  • Occasional algae-based foods or spirulina

• Feed 1–2 times daily

Breeding & Spawning

• Egg-layers
• Males will prepare and guard a nest site, often on a flat surface
• Females lay eggs, and males guard and fan the eggs until hatching

• Breeding in home aquariums is rare but possible under optimal conditions

Appearance

• Green to yellow-green body with a slightly iridescent sheen
• Slender, oval shape with a forked tail

• Some individuals may show blue or turquoise highlights, especially under aquarium lighting

Distinctive Features

• Known for its shimmering greenish-yellow color, which contrasts well with reef environments
• Hardy and active, great for adding movement and color to saltwater tanks
• Easy to care for, making it a good option for beginner marine aquarists

• Less aggressive than some other damselfish species