Blue damselfish

Blue damselfish, Chrysiptera cyanea, also commonly known as blue damselfish, the sapphire devil, or orange tail blue damselfish, is a popular saltwater aquarium. It’s a really colorful, hardy, and active fish. The female is all blue; the male has an orange tail and is also well-known by the common name of Orangetail Blue Damselfish. In the wild, Blue Devil Damselfish are located within coral reefs, generally active protecting a tiny area.

			Chrysiptera cyanea
			Minimum Size at least more 30 gallons
			75 – 78°F
			8.1 – 8.4
			1.020 – 1.025
			Semi-aggressive
			Very Easy

The Blue Damselfish, scientifically known as Chrysiptera cyanea, is a small, vibrant marine fish native to the Indo-Pacific region. It’s popular among aquarists due to its hardy nature and vibrant coloration. Here are key points about the Blue Damselfish:

General Characteristics:

1. Size & Appearance: They are small, typically growing to around 2-3 inches in length. They are easily identifiable by their vibrant blue color. Males are typically more brightly colored than females.
2. Behavior: Blue Damselfish are known for their assertive, territorial behavior. They can be aggressive towards other fish, especially within the confines of an aquarium.
3. Life Span: The lifespan of a Blue Damselfish in the wild can be up to six years. However, they can live longer in captivity with proper care.

4. Natural Habitat: Blue Damselfish are native to coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region. They prefer warm, tropical waters.
5. Range: They are widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the Pacific islands.

Blue damselfish is a durable member of a saltwater aquarium. For this reason and its normally cheap price, it’s suggested for you to be a beginner marine aquarium keepers to get the experience of the hobby. 30 gallons is normally quoted as the minimum tank size necessary to permanently house this fish.

In Aquariums:

The Blue Damselfish (Chrysiptera cyanea) is a popular choice for aquariums due to their vibrant color, resilience, and adaptability. However, it’s essential to consider their specific needs and behavior to provide them an optimal environment:

Aquarium Setup:

1. Size of Aquarium: The recommended tank size for Blue Damselfish is at least 30 gallons. They are active swimmers and require ample space.
2. Water Conditions: Like other marine fish, Blue Damselfish need saltwater with specific parameters. The water temperature should be between 72°F and 80°F, the pH should be between 8.1 and 8.4, and the specific gravity should be between 1.020 and 1.025.
3. Aquarium Environment: Blue Damselfish inhabit coral reefs in the wild, so an aquarium housing them should mimic this environment. They need plenty of hiding places, which can be provided using live rock.

Feeding & Nutrition:

4. Diet: Blue Damselfish are omnivorous and require a varied diet to stay healthy. A mix of quality flake or pellet food, along with occasional servings of live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or mysis shrimp, can provide balanced nutrition. They also feed on algae, contributing to maintaining a clean aquarium.

Behavior & Compatibility:

5. Temperament: Blue Damselfish are known for their aggressive and territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks. This can become more pronounced as they mature.
6. Tank Mates: Care should be taken when deciding tank mates for Blue Damselfish. They can coexist with similarly sized or larger fish that can stand their ground. It’s advisable to avoid placing them with smaller, more passive fish. They can cohabit well with other species like clownfish, dottybacks, tangs, and wrasses.

Breeding:

7. Breeding in Captivity: Breeding Blue Damselfish in captivity can be a challenging task. Males prepare a flat surface where females can lay their eggs. After spawning, males guard the eggs, which hatch after three to seven days.

Blue Damselfish are vibrant, resilient fish, popular in aquariums. As omnivores, they require a diverse diet, including flakes, pellets, and live food, ensuring a balanced nutrient intake. Overfeeding should be avoided to prevent water contamination and susceptibility to disease. They are territorial and can show aggression, particularly towards their species. Appropriate selection of tankmates and provision of ample hiding spots is crucial. Careful observation of their behavior and health is also key. With adequate care, Blue Damselfish can thrive and add lively color to an aquarium for many years.