General information - The Yellowtail Damselfish is extremely hardy

fish, esspically recommended for beginners; this beautiful fish can

tolerate fish keeper's mistakes and used by many hobbyists to cycle

a new tank. It has a magnificent blue body with yellow tail. Although it

is beginners fish many experienced fish keepers find it attractive

probably due to its being less aggressive then other Damsels.  

Common Name - Yellowtail Damselfish, Yellowtail Blue Damselfish,

Yellowtail Demoiselle 

Scientific Name - Chrysiptera parasema

Photo by: Ozden Konuralp

Origin - Indo-Pacific 

Size – 7 cm (3 inches) 

First discovered – Fowler, 1918 

Nutrition – Omnivore, It will accept vegetable matter, Spirulina, flake and pellet foods. Frozen foods such

as mysis, krill can be provided to complete their diet.   

Behavior - Semi-aggressive 

Maintenance and care – A single Yellowtail Damselfish should have an aquarium of at least 20 gallons.

It is recommended to keep the Yellowtail Damselfish in groups of 4 and up to spread their natural

aggressiveness. Avoid keeping them in an aquarium with large predatory fish such as Lionfish, Snappers

and triggers.   

Water Parameters – Temperature: 75F - 80F (24°C - 27°C), pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12, Specific Gravity:

1.020-1.025 

Breeding- Yellowtail Damsels have been bred in captivity; males are usually larger and more slender.

Courtship and mating can take up 20 minutes, the male have a unique Courtship behavior that includes

color changes and dancing movements. The female can lays up to 15,000 eggs. The eggs hatch after

3-7 days.