Choosing a Damselfish

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Damselfish are shoaling reef fish that liveJumboKrill Freeze Dried Jumbo Shrimp
These whole, freeze-dried shrimp are an excellent source of protein, fat, vitamin E and roughage for all large, carnivorous tropical and marine fish. ... in coral outcroppings that are used as hiding places and territories. Shoaling refers to large groups of fish that live together for protection. These fish are agile and active, easy to feed, and tolerate fluctuations in water quality. Several species are commonly kept in the marine aquarium and all have a different appearance and temperament. Beginning saltwater aquarists often start with a few colorful damsels.

Appearance and Behavior

Damsels are most noted for their electric blue coloration but other varieties are equally appealing. Common species include:

Humbugs. An easy fish to keep but definitely territorial and aggressive. This damsel has black and white vertical stripes and is sometimes referred to as a "5-striped."

Most species of damsels will quarrel among themselves. In the wild, where there are plenty of corals and rocky ledges, each fish will establish its own small territory. Within the confines of the aquarium however, keeping several damsels will result in disputes. To help solve this problem, keep them singly or provide enough rock40lb Look Alive Reef Rock
Why wait? CaribSea 40lb Look Alive Reef Rock are already in living color! We begin with actual pieces of real coral rock, then add pink and green cora... and coral formations so fish don't squabble over territory. Most damsels will grow to be 2 to 3 inches and live 1 to 3 years.

Feeding and TankEclipse Curved-Front Aquarium System
Marineland/Aquaria Eclipse Aquarium System has unique combinations of beauty, precision and 3-stage BIO- Wheel filtration efficiency, the Eclipse Aqua... Requirements

Damsels are not fussy eaters. Most adapt well to flakeFormula One Flakes
Ocean Nutrition Formula One Flakes; Extra Algae with fresh seafood's make this a gourmet natural food for herbivorous marine and freshwater fishes... food but a well-balanced diet should include some chopped meat, freeze dried foods and even some vegetation. Offer a leaf of romaine lettuce for a short time several times a week. They have been observed to eat algaeMarine Algaefix
Marine Algaefix is EPA-registered as reef-safe. Algaefix® Marine controls many types of algae in marine & reef aquariums. It will not harm marine fish.... The tankEclipse Curved-Front Aquarium System
Marineland/Aquaria Eclipse Aquarium System has unique combinations of beauty, precision and 3-stage BIO- Wheel filtration efficiency, the Eclipse Aqua... should be 55 gallons or larger to provide stable water quality. To construct coral or rock formations, secure them to the bottom or each other with silicone aquarium sealant. The fish will dart in and out of hiding places and defend their separate territories.

Special Concerns

Because of their hardy nature and ease of feeding, damsels are good fish for establishing marine tanks. Use one or two as the first fish introduced to a newly established tank. Watch them carefully for signs of aggression when other species are added. They are not always happy to welcome newcomers!

 

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