Damselfish, also known as Mediterranean Chromis, is a small type of ray-finned fish.
It belongs to the Pomacentridae family and is found in the Eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean regions.
This fish likes to swim in groups above rocky reefs or seagrass meadows, specifically near Posidonia plants.
Damselfish’s diet consists of tiny planktonic or bottom-dwelling animals. This fish is also reef-safe and doesn’t harm coral reefs.
Damselfish Interesting Facts
- Damselfish (Chromis chromis) are small, ray-finned fish native to the Mediterranean Sea and Eastern Atlantic Ocean.
- These fish live in groups near rocky reefs or seagrass meadows and have a diet of planktonic or bottom-dwelling animals.
- They grow up to 5.1 inches (13.0 centimeters) long and possess unique features like 14 dorsal spines and 2 anal spines.
- During the breeding season, Damselfish lay eggs on rocks or sandy floors, with males guarding them until they hatch.
Damselfish Habitat
Damselfish is a marine fish found in the Mediterranean Sea and Eastern Atlantic Ocean.
It lives along the coast of Portugal, down to the Gulf of Guinea, including São Tomé Island, and possibly extends to Angola.
It’s more common around islands like the Azores, Salvage, Canary, and Annobon than on the mainland.
This fish prefers coral reefs and doesn’t migrate.
It’s found at depths of 2 to 40 meters, living in subtropical waters with a geographic range from 46°N to 12°S latitude and 32°W to 36°E longitude.
| Water Temperature: | Unknown |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Damselfish Physical Characteristics
Size: 5.1 inches (13.0 centimeters)
Damselfish can grow up to a maximum length of 9.8 inches (25.0 centimeters) long, but this fish usually reach around 5.1 inches (13.0 centimeters).
It has 14 dorsal spines, 2 anal spines, 9 to 11 dorsal soft rays, and 9 to 11 anal soft rays.
Damselfish Reproduction
Damselfish breed during the summer months, laying eggs with sticky filaments on rocks or sandy floors.
These fish form distinct pairs when breeding. Male damselfish protect the eggs until they hatch.
Damselfish Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Chromis |
| Scientific Name: | Chromis chromis |
| Also Known As: | Damselfish, Mediterranean Chromis |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |