Yellow Tail Damsel

The Yellow Tail Damsel is extremely hardy and gorgeously coloured. This is partly because its jewel-blue body is contrasted by an energizing yellow tail. This colour combination looks stunning against any backdrop of corals and live rock. But what pleases aquarists most is that the Yellow Tail Damsel is less aggressive and does not need as large of an aquarium as other Damsels.

This species prefers multiple hiding places and peaceful tankmates. Though most Yellow Tail Damsel will ignore other fish, invertebrates, or corals, some may be territorial towards its own kind or similar-sized fish. The Yellow Tail Damsel is best kept in small groups of odd numbered fish in suitably sized systems.

The Yellow Tail Damsel feeds on zooplankton and algae in the aquarium. For best care, it should also be fed a varied diet of meaty foods, such as mysis and vitamin-enriched shrimp. It is best to feed several small meals throughout the day.

Yellow Tail Damsels have been bred in captivity. Though difficult to sex, males are usually larger and more slender and become aggressive towards females when ready to mate. However, the male Yellow Tail Damsel is ultimately responsible for the care and guardianship of the eggs and will become very territorial while watching over his brood.