Yellowtail Blue Damselfish

The Yellowtail Blue Damselfish is a vibrant species native to the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Great Barrier Reef. Recognized for its brilliant blue body and contrasting bright yellow tail, this species is both visually striking and popular in the aquarium trade. Typically growing up to about 3 inches in length, the Yellowtail Blue Damselfish is a relatively small fish, making it suitable for smaller to medium-sized marine aquariums.

Yellowtail Blue Damselfish are omnivores, feeding on algae, plankton, and small invertebrates in the wild. They are primarily herbivores, grazing on algae growing on rocks and corals. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet, including high-quality algae-based foods, spirulina, and occasional meaty foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp to supplement their diet. Their grazing helps keep algae populations in check, making them beneficial for maintaining a healthy reef tank.

This species is known for its active and somewhat territorial nature. Yellowtail Blue Damselfish can be aggressive, especially towards other damselfish or similarly colored species. It’s best to house them with other peaceful or similarly sized fish, avoiding overly aggressive tankmates. They are best suited to aquariums that allow them to establish a small territory, with plenty of hiding places and live rock to graze on.

Yellowtail Blue Damselfish are relatively hardy and adaptable to stable aquarium conditions. They thrive in aquariums with good water circulation, slightly alkaline water (pH 8.1–8.4), and temperatures between 74-80°F (23-27°C). They are fairly easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner to intermediate aquarium hobbyists. With proper care, they can live for 5 to 7 years or more in captivity.

Fun Facts:
The Yellowtail Blue Damselfish’s striking blue body and yellow tail make it one of the most popular damselfish species in marine aquariums.

While they can be territorial, their colorful appearance and active behavior make them an interesting addition to a community tank, as long as compatible tankmates are selected.

Yellowtail Blue Damselfish are known for their high energy and can often be seen swimming actively throughout the tank, adding both movement and color to the aquarium.