Electric-blue body, sunburst-yellow tail: the Yellowtail Damsel is a flash of living color and one of the toughest little fish in the hobby. Cheap, bold, and nearly indestructible, it packs personality into a tiny frame.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseHigh
A busy, energetic swimmer โ keep plenty of open swimming room.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment5โ10 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) ยท Fin rot ยท Parasites
๐ Care guide
The Yellowtail Damselfish (sometimes called the Yellowtail Blue Damsel) comes from the Indo-Pacific and reaches around 8 cm. It is one of the hardiest saltwater fish available, tolerating a wide range of conditions, which makes it a common beginner choice, though it can turn nippy as it matures. House in a 75-litre or larger reef tank at 24-26C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4. It is reef-safe and less aggressive than most damsels but still best added to a robust community with plenty of rock caves. Feed an omnivorous diet of mysis, marine flake, pellets, and algae-based foods. A single specimen is easiest; keeping several risks territorial squabbles unless the tank is large.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Yellowtail Damselfish?
High. A busy, energetic swimmer โ keep plenty of open swimming room.
How much maintenance does a Yellowtail Damselfish need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Yellowtail Damselfish need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Yellowtail Damselfish a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Yellowtail Damselfish live?
5โ10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Yellowtail Damselfish?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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