Neon Damselfish (Pomacentrus coelestis) Care Guide
Pomacentrus coelestis is an Indo-Pacific reef damselfish reaching about 9 cm, feeding on zooplankton and benthic algae.
Overview
Pomacentrus coelestis, the neon damselfish, is a marine damselfish of the family Pomacentridae. FishBase records a maximum size of 9.0 cm total length. It is a widespread reef-associated species of the Indo-Pacific.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacentridae
- Genus: Pomacentrus
- Scientific name: Pomacentrus coelestis
Habitat
FishBase reports the species from the eastern Indian Ocean and western central Pacific: Sri Lanka to the Line and Tuamotu islands, north to southern Japan and south to the Rowley Shoals and Lord Howe Island. It lives at depths of 1–20 m, where adults inhabit lagoon and seaward reefs close to the bottom among rubble beds; juveniles school among soft corals.
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 neon damselfish feeds on zooplankton and benthic algae. In aquaria it accepts prepared, frozen and small live foods together with algae-based feeds.
Compatibility
This is an aggressive, mid-water Pomacentrus. FishBase notes that adults form small groups or large congregations over favourable reef sections. In aquaria it is best housed with robust tankmates such as tangs, wrasses and (with caution) triggers; slow, shy fish and additional damsels in small tanks should be 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 considered an expert-level undertaking.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 23 September 2021, per FishBase).