Ocellate Damselfish, scientifically known as Pomacentrus vaiuli, is a type of damselfish from the Pacific Ocean. It’s sometimes seen in the aquarium trade.
This fish has different color forms based on location.
Ocellate Damselfish usually lives alone in coral and rubble areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, from shallow waters down to 131 feet deep.
Its diet consists of algae and small invertebrates. This fish is active during daytime hours and is safe for reef aquariums.
Ocellate Damselfish Interesting Facts
- Ocellate Damselfish grows up to 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters) long and display various colors depending on its location.
- They live alone in coral and rubble areas of lagoons and seaward reefs, ranging from shallow waters to depths of 131 feet.
- Their diet includes algae and small invertebrates, and are active during daytime hours.
- During breeding, males protect the eggs and provide oxygen for them.
Ocellate Damselfish Habitat
Ocellate Damselfish is found in the Pacific Ocean, from the Moluccas to Samoa, and north to the Izu Islands.
It also lives south near Rowley Shoals in the eastern Indian Ocean and New Caledonia. Ocellate Damselfish is a marine fish that lives near reefs.
It doesn’t migrate and is found at depths of 1 to 45 meters. This tropical fish thrives in latitudes between 35°N to 25°S and longitudes of 104°E to 159°W.
| Water Temperature: | Unknown |
| Water pH: | Unknown |
| Water Hardness: | Unknown |
Ocellate Damselfish Physical Characteristics
Size: 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters)
Ocellate Damselfish grows up to 3.9 inches (10.0 centimeters) long. This fish has 13 dorsal spines, 15 to 16 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 15 to 16 anal soft rays.
Its body color ranges from light tan to deep blue or dark brownish purple. The top part is yellow-orange, and there’s an eye-like spot on the back of the dorsal fin.
The body depth is about twice the length of its standard length.
Ocellate Damselfish Reproduction
Ocellate Damselfish lay eggs to reproduce. During breeding, they form unique pairs.
Their eggs stick to surfaces underwater (demersal) and don’t float. Male Ocellate Damselfish protect the eggs and help supply them with oxygen.
Ocellate Damselfish Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Pomacentrus |
| Scientific Name: | Pomacentrus vaiuli |
| Also Known As: | Ocellate Damselfish |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |