Charcoal Damsel (Pomacentrus brachialis) Care Guide
Pomacentrus brachialis is a western Pacific reef damselfish reaching about 10 cm, feeding on zooplankton and benthic algae.
Overview
Pomacentrus brachialis, the charcoal damsel, is a marine damselfish of the family Pomacentridae. FishBase records a maximum size of 10.3 cm standard length. It is a reef-associated species of the tropical western Pacific.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Pomacentrus
- Scientific name: Pomacentrus brachialis
Habitat
FishBase reports the species across the western Pacific from Indonesia to Fiji, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to New Caledonia, with recent records from Tonga. It inhabits reef-associated zones at depths of 6–40 m, typically in passages, on outer reef slopes and current-prone clear-water reef flats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L (about 40 gal)
- Temperature: 24–26 °C (75–79 °F)
- pH: 8.1–8.4
- GH: 8–12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 5–10 years
Diet
According to FishBase the charcoal damsel feeds on zooplankton and benthic algae. In aquaria it accepts prepared, frozen and small live foods together with algae-based feeds.
Compatibility
FishBase notes that adults occur singly or in small groups. As a semi-aggressive, mid-water Pomacentrus it can defend territory in smaller tanks. Robust tankmates such as tangs, wrasses and (with caution) triggers are generally suitable; slow, shy fish and additional damsels in small tanks are best avoided.
Breeding
Reproduction is oviparous with distinct pairing. FishBase reports that the eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate and that males guard and aerate them. Captive breeding is regarded as an expert-level undertaking.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 18 August 2023, per FishBase).