Cross’ Damsel is a type of damselfish found in the western and central Pacific Ocean.
This fish lives in shallow waters around rocky areas or coral reefs within protected bays and lagoons.
Cross’ Damsels are solitary, shy, and often swim near the water’s surface.
They’re active during the day and safe for reef tanks. Also, they are sometimes sold in the aquarium trade.
Cross’ Damsel Interesting Facts
- Cross’ Damsels are found in shallow waters near coral reefs in the western and central Pacific Ocean.
- They can grow up to 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters) long, with adults having brown and orange coloring while the young ones display bright orange and neon blue stripes.
- During breeding, these fish form pairs lay sticky eggs on surfaces, and males guard and aerate the eggs.
Cross’ Damsel Habitat
Cross’ Damsel is found in the Western Central Pacific, specifically around Sulawesi and the Moluccas islands.
This fish lives in marine environments near reefs and doesn’t migrate.
It usually stays at depths of 1 to 12 meters (about 3 to 39 feet) in warm tropical waters.
The geographic range for this fish is between 5°N to 11°S latitude and 119°E to 135°E longitude.
| Water Temperature: | Unknown |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Cross’ Damsel Physical Characteristics
Size: 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters)
Cross’ Damsel grows up to 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters) long. It has 13 dorsal spines, 14 to 16 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 13 to 14 anal soft rays.
Adult Cross’ Damsels are brown with orange near their pectoral fins. Young ones have bright orange heads, dorsal body parts, and fins.
The lower part is mauve with a neon blue stripe from the snout to the base of the dorsal fin.
Young ones swim above the bottom in shallow reefs. Adults are not as colorful and can be easily missed.
Its body depth is about 1.7 to 1.9 times its length.
Cross’ Damsel Reproduction
Cross’ Damsel lays eggs to reproduce. During breeding, it forms distinct pairs. The eggs stick to surfaces underwater, like rocks or plants.
Male Cross’ Damsels protect the eggs and help supply them with oxygen by fanning water over them.
Cross’ Damsel Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Neoglyphidodon |
| Scientific Name: | Neoglyphidodon crossi |
| Also Known As: | Cross’ Damsel |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |