Blue Damselfish

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Blue or Blue Devil Damselfish

Scientific Name Chrysiptera Cyanea; Chrysiptera Hemicyanea

Max. Size: 3"

Tank Size: 10+ Gallons

Aggression: Very aggressive.

Hardiness: Extremely Hardy

Reef-Safe: Yes

Available as captive-bred: ?

 Chrysiptera cyanea, the Blue Damselfish
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Chrysiptera cyanea, the Blue Damselfish

Introduction

"Awww, look at the cute little blue fishy!"

Famous last words for many soon-to-be saltwater aquarists. The Blue Damsel is attractive, hardy and reef-safe. Almost an irresistible package! Almost. These fish can be extremely aggressive toward its tankmates. As the damsels grow in size, their aggression and territorial nature will strengthen. Aquarists are advised to think twice before putting this, or many other damselfish, into their aquarium. Not only can they be mean, but tough to catch as well!

Does this make it a bad choice for the aquarium? Not necessarily. If you're planning on having a tank with a single fish, or other fish that can hold their own, then the Blue Damselfish makes a hardy, pretty and somewhat endearing aquarium inhabitant.

Distribution

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Taxonomic Stuff you know you Care About

  • Family: (ADD HERE)
  • Genus: Chrysiptera
  • Species: cyanea


Behavior

Mostly known for their aggression; see above. Damselfishes in the wild will stake out a territory and "farm" the algae that grows in their area. Typically, they are found in high population densities. This feeding and social behavior will explain their innate aggressiveness.

Feeding

Omnivores. Will readily accept prepared foods or frozen seafoods, as well as the occasional seaweed feeding.

Breeding

The Blue Damsel may spawn in captivity; Rearing the fry is another story. Typically, the two damsels will pair off and terrorize just about any other living thing in the tank (including the owner's arm), especially if it gets near their selected breeding site.


Social Structure

Social when young; Become more aggressive with age.


Current Views

Not a bad choice for a first saltwater aquarium. A terrible choice for a community tank housing other fish.


Additional Notes

Due to its hardiness and inexpensive price tag, the Blue Damsel is often the victim of old-fashioned cycling methods using fish. Not only is this inhumane toward the damselfish, but many new hobbyists have left any surviving damsels in a soon-to-be community tank, leading to aggression nightmares down the road.

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