Arnaz's Damselfish Care Guide
Chrysiptera arnazae is a small western Pacific damselfish described in 2010, bright blue with yellow markings, living among branching corals.
Overview
Chrysiptera arnazae is a small marine damselfish of the family Pomacentridae described in 2010 by Allen, Erdmann and Barber. The body is predominantly bright blue with yellow markings; it differs from the similar Chrysiptera parasema in carrying yellow not only on the tail and peduncle but also on the posterior margins of the dorsal, anal and pelvic fins. The species name honours Arnaz Mehta.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Chrysiptera
- Scientific name: Chrysiptera arnazae
- Described: Allen, Erdmann & Barber, 2010
- Common name: Arnaz's damselfish
Habitat
The species is known from Indonesia and Papua New Guinea in the western Pacific. FishBase records it from sheltered fringing reefs, typically in bays, at depths of about 3-20 m, where it associates with branching corals such as Acropora and Seriatopora hystrix and usually occurs in small aggregations.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness (dKH): 8-12
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Maximum size: about 4-7 cm
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Reef compatibility
Chrysiptera arnazae is reef-safe and does not harm corals or invertebrates. It benefits from branching coral or rockwork that mirrors its natural shelter.
Diet
In the wild it feeds on zooplankton. In aquaria it accepts marine flakes, pellets and frozen foods such as mysis and brine shrimp, offered about twice daily.
Compatibility
It is relatively peaceful for a damsel and suits community reef tanks. Suitable companions include tangs and wrasses, with triggers added only with caution, while slow or shy fish and additional damsels in small tanks should be avoided.
Breeding
The species is oviparous with distinct pairing. The demersal eggs adhere to substrate and are guarded and aerated by the male. Captive breeding is considered difficult.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (assessed 2021), reflecting its restricted range and dependence on branching-coral habitat.