Cocoa Damsel

The Azure Damsel (Chrysiptera hemicyanea) is a small but striking fish, known for its vibrant blue coloration. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this species is an active and hardy addition to many saltwater aquariums.

(REEF SAFE / EASY)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Azure Damsel, Blue Damsel
• Scientific Name: Chrysiptera hemicyanea
• Family: Pomacentridae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Fiji.
• Maximum Size: Typically grows up to 3 inches (7.6 cm).
• Lifespan: Typically 5 to 6 years in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Easy; a hardy species that can adapt well to most aquarium conditions.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Bright blue body with a yellow-orange coloration on the tail and dorsal fins.
• Body Shape & Structure: Small, oval body with a slightly compressed shape.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A 30-gallon (113-liter) tank is recommended for a small group.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.020 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide live rock with plenty of hiding spots, as well as some open swimming areas.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Omnivorous
• Preferred Foods: High-quality flake foods, frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp, and algae-based foods.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts 2 to 3 times daily.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Active and territorial; can be aggressive towards other damsels or similar-sized fish.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with peaceful species, but they can be territorial, particularly towards other fish of the same species.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Suitable for peaceful tank mates, though caution is needed with other damsels and more aggressive species.
• Activity Level: Highly active; often found darting in and around the rockwork and swimming in open water.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Ideal for beginners and easy to care for due to their hardiness.
• Special Requirements: Requires stable water parameters and proper diet; may become territorial as they mature.
• Breeding Info: Azure Damsels are not commonly bred in captivity, but they are known to form monogamous pairs.
• Additional Notes: Azure Damsels are very hardy and will adapt to a wide range of conditions, though they are best kept in a peaceful community tank with careful consideration of their territorial nature.