Smith’s Damsel belongs to the Pomacentridae family and is found in the Western Central Pacific. Sometimes, it’s seen in the aquarium trade.
This fish was named after American fish scientist Hugh McCormick Smith (1865-1941).
Adults of this species live in coral patches within lagoons and nearshore reefs.
Smith’s Damsels are often found in areas with dirty water and form small to large groups.
These fish eat by swimming above coral heads in the middle of the water. They are active during daytime hours and safe for coral reef environments.
You can check out what this fish looks like over here.
Smith’s Damsel Interesting Facts
- Smith’s Damsel, named after American fish scientist Hugh McCormick Smith, grows up to 2.8 inches (7.0 centimeters) long and lives in the Western Central Pacific.
- This fish thrives near coral reefs and lagoons in warm, tropical waters at depths of 2 to 14 meters.
- It has small blue spots on its scales and breeds by laying sticky eggs underwater; males protect the eggs and provide oxygen.
- Active during daytime hours, Smith’s Damsel is safe for coral reef environments.
Smith’s Damsel Habitat
Smith’s Damsel lives in the western central Pacific region, including the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and New Hebrides.
This fish is found in marine environments near coral reefs and doesn’t migrate.
It typically lives at depths of 2 to 14 meters (7 to 46 feet) in warm, tropical waters.
| Water Temperature: | Unknown |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Smith’s Damsel Physical Characteristics
Size: 2.8 inches (7.0 centimeters)
Smith’s Damsel is a small fish, growing up to 2.8 inches (7.0 centimeters) long.
It has 13 dorsal spines, 12 to 13 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 13 to 14 anal soft rays.
This fish is characterized by small blue spots along its scale rows, especially toward the front of its back. Its body depth is about twice its standard length.
Smith’s Damsel Reproduction
Smith’s Damsel is a marine fish that lays eggs. During breeding, each male and female form a unique pair.
The eggs stick to surfaces underwater and stay there. Male fish protect the eggs and help supply them with oxygen by moving water over them.
Smith’s Damsel Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Pomacentrus |
| Scientific Name: | Pomacentrus smithi |
| Also Known As: | Smith’s Damsel |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |