Orangetail Blue Damselfish

General information

The Orangetail Blue Damselfish is the common name for the male Blue Damselfish. The female is all blue; the male has an orange tail. The Blue Damselfish is the Molly of saltwater aquariums. It is a very colorful, hardy, and active fish. In the wild, Blue Damselfish are found throughout reefs, usually busy defending a small territory. The Blue Damselfish has the ability to hide in a hole or crevice and darken to an almost black color. This usually happens when it is threatened. After the perceived threat is gone, it will turn electric blue in a matter of seconds.

The Orangetail Blue Damselfish is somewhat aggressive, so its housing should be able to easily accommodate multiple specimens. It is a good fish for beginners and makes an ideal companion fish for a medium sized saltwater tank, and as a great companion for reefs and invertebrates. As the fish matures it may become aggressive, causing problems with the selection of other species to be added to the aquarium. If keeping with other damselfish, provide multiple hiding places to break up territories and decrease aggression.