What-toFeed.com

what to feed damselfish

by Prof. Daniella White II Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

  • Fish. You could try feeding your Damselfish any fish that you can find in the fish market. Just be sure to remove the scales, any sharp parts and fins.
  • Shrimp. The shrimp that we can buy from the fish market is also enjoyed by Damselfish. ...
  • Crab Meat. Crab meat is low in fat and high in phosphorous. ...
  • Mussels. Unlike the other meats on this list, there is a specific way to prepare mussels for storage, so that they do not go bad.

The Blue Damselfish is an omnivore, so their diet should be made up of live and frozen meat including brine shrimp, worms, squid, shrimp, copepods, and small pieces of fish. They will also eat flaked foods and some herbivore preparations.Mar 19, 2018

What do damselfish fish eat?

Damselfish Diet and Feeding. One of the appealing qualities of Damselfish is that they are very easy to feed and tend to eat just about anything placed into the tank. The vast majority of Damselfish are omnivores. They will eat both live and frozen food, in addition to flake food.

How do I Keep my damselfish from fighting with other fish?

This will prevent the damselfish from feeling that the entire tank is their territory and bullying the other fish. You should feed the fish you already have in the tank before introducing the damselfish, so that all your fish are content and there is less chance of a fight.

Can I Feed my damselfish raw shrimp?

Raw shrimp can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months, while shrimp that have been deshelled and boiled can stay good to feed your Damselfish for up to 10 months! Crab meat is low in fat and high in phosphorous. To feed the Damselfish, the meat will need to be removed from its shell, or the Damselfish won’t be able to get to it.

What is a damselfish?

It’s important to mention that the Damselfish is an extremely large group of fish and as a result, each species of Damsel has its own quirks and individuality.

image

How often do you feed damselfish?

Things to remember when feeding your damsel:Depending on species and size, feed small amounts two to three times daily, no more than fish will eat in 1 to 2 minutes.Thaw frozen food before feeding.

What do you feed a blue damsel?

Vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, Mysis shrimp, cyclops, frozen seafood, and herbivore flakes make a good diet for Blue Damselfish. Including color-enhancing flake foods in the diet helps to keep the fish looking vibrant and beautiful.

What fish can you put with damsels?

To play it safe, stick with species from Chrysiptera like Azure, Talbot, Springer's, Rolland's, Yellowtail, Tracey's, Tuxedo (research, these look very similar to the striped damsels of the Dascyllus genus, you don't wanna end up with a Three-Stripe or Four-Stripe) maybe King (Chrysiptera Rex) demoiselles too.

What algae do damselfish eat?

red alga PolysiphoniaThe most common algae they can eat, the red alga Polysiphonia, are less competitive than the inedible species and so the damselfish help them out by killing off their rivals.

Do damsels eat algae?

Damselfish lack the digestive enzymes to process many kinds of algae, and members of the genus Polysiphonia are some of the few they can eat. The fish also act the gardener (Mr. McGregor, perhaps) in chasing away invaders like the sea urchin, the Peter Rabbit of the damselfish garden.

Can damselfish live with clownfish?

Clownfish are a species of Damselfish themselves. And many Damselfish tend to be territorial and aggressive towards one another as well as their tank mates. However the Chromis Damselfish are a notable exception to the trend.

Do damsels get ich?

Yes they get ich. Commonly when they come in from the wholesaler-which obviously agrees with the stress comments. In a stable tank- they seldom will stress enough to be affected.

Why is my blue damsel turning white?

At night, their coloring gets much lighter. Their bellies look really light blue/white. It's just something they do. Nothing to worry about.

How long do damsels live in captivity?

Their lifespan is an estimated 6 to 8 years in the wild, though some species may live 10 to 12 years in their natural habitats. In captivity they may live 18 to 20 years. These fish are members of the Pomacentridae family of Damselfish and Anemonefish.

Do damsels eat seaweed?

Your damsel doesn't really need the seaweed. It may eat it, especially if it sees other fish eating it. Alone with no examples to follow it may not try it.

Do damsels eat coral?

Damselfish kill a section of the coral, and then wait for algae to grow in the dead spot. On this coral, only a few live sections remain. Scientists say the world's coral reefs could go extinct during our children's lifetimes. Human activities are putting this beautiful ecosystem at risk.

What do saltwater damselfish eat?

The Blue Damselfish is an omnivore, so their diet should be made up of live and frozen meat including brine shrimp, worms, squid, shrimp, copepods, and small pieces of fish. They will also eat flaked foods and some herbivore preparations.

Overview

Scientific name: Chrysiptera cyanea, Dascyllus trimaculatus, Dascyllus aruanus, Chrysiptera taupou, Chrysiptera parasema, Abudefduf saxatilis, Pomacentrus smithi, Chrysiptera talboti

Typical appearance and behavior

Can be very territorial toward same species. Damsels become more territorial as they age

Habitat

A minimum of 29 gallons is recommended for smaller-sized adult damsels. A larger aquarium will be needed for larger species.

Where to buy

In store and online Damsels are available for purchase at Petco online and in store; availability varies by location. If visiting your local location, call ahead to check availability.

Notes and resources

Ask a Pet Care Center associate about Petco's selection of products available for the care and happiness of your new pet. All products carry a 100% money-back guarantee.

What fish can you have with Damselfish?

Damselfish can make good tankmates to peaceful fish such as gobies, dartfish, and fairy wrasses, as long as there is ample space for all your fish. Also make sure the peaceful fish are established in your tank first.

How many gallons of water should I use for a damselfish?

You should use a large tank of at least 100 gallons (378.5 liters) so that your damselfish can establish their own territory.

How much space do damselfish need?

Damselfish require a good amount of space. If you are keeping only a mated pair of damselfish and no other fish, the tank should be at least 20 gallons (75.7 liters) in volume. A tank housing more damselfish than that, as well as other types of fish, should be at least 45 gallons (170.3 liters) in volume, with at least 15 gallons (56.8 liters) ...

What are the different types of damselfish?

Types of Damselfish. There are several different types of damselfish, from the highly aggressive blue devil damselfish to the generally peaceful Talbot’s damselfish, and many others. This guide will focus on some of the more peaceful species, which should adjust to life in your tank easily.

Why do damselfish fish need a water filter?

It is also important to have a water filter to keep the water clean and safe for your fish, and to create currents for gas exchange and removal of waste products.

How big do Azure Damselfish get?

They can grow up to 2.75 inches (6.99 cm) long.

What is a damselfish fish?

Damselfish are a omnivorous saltwater fish species that belong to the family Pomacentridae. In the wild, they mostly feed on plankton and are a coral reef-dwelling species, related to clownfish. Some members of this family are called chromis, but they are still grouped under the term ‘damselfish.’. Many damselfish species are popular fish ...

How many gallons of water do you need for a damselfish?

However other types of Damselfish can grow up to 12 inches so would need at least 100 gallon tank .

What color are damselfish?

One of the most well-known features of Damselfish is their vibrant color, ranging from red, yellow to blue.

What is a saltwater fish?

March 19, 2018 Robert Saltwater Fish 2. The Damselfish belong to the Pomacentridae family, of which there is over 250 species. Whilst the majority of these Damselfish species are found in saltwater, certain species can survive in brackish waters. The Damselfish are renowned for their bright colors, hardiness and ease to keep.

What is a damsel fish?

The Damselfish are renowned for their bright colors, hardiness and ease to keep. It’s important to mention that the Damselfish is an extremely large group of fish and as a result each species of Damsel has their own quirks and individuality. For this reason, in this guide to Damselfish, we will speak in generality of the species whilst giving ...

What temperature should a damselfish tank be?

Following our example of the Blue Damselfish, the water temperature should be between 73°F to 81°F. pH levels should be between 8.1-8.4, with a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.

How big does a blue damselfish get?

It will grow up to 3 inches in length and is bright blue in color. Males will have a yellow tail and snout, whereas juveniles and females don’t tend to have the yellow highlights. Interestingly, when threatened, the Blue Damselfish can turn almost completely black in a matter of seconds.

How big do damselfish fish get?

Their natural environment is in tropical coral reefs and they are lively and active fish. The majority of Damselfish grow to around 3 inches in length however large species, such as the Garibaldi, can grow up to 12 inches long. They are well known for their bright colors and aggressive, territorial nature.

Damselfish Lifespan

If you cater to the needs of your Damselfish, you could expect them to live for around 6 – 8 years. The quality of their tank conditions will impact their lifespan, as always, so you can expect a longer life if you meet their requirements meticulously.

Damselfish Appearance

Most Damselfish are vibrantly colored and look fabulous in a saltwater tank.

Damselfish Habitat And Tank Requirements

Since in the wild, these are tropical coral reef fish, you need to mimic this as best possible.

Damselfish Tank Conditions

Tropical fish need a tropical climate, so a heater should be included in your setup aiming for a steady 79 – 82ºF (26 – 27ºC) if possible.

How To Feed Damselfish

Damselfish are not picky eaters and will eat just about everything put in front of them. The majority are omnivores but do check with the stockist about the variety you are purchasing.

Damselfish Common Diseases And Illness

We have already mentioned that Damselfish are renowned for being hardy and downright difficult to inadvertently kill through poor tank conditions and cleaning regimes.

What type of water do damselfish use?

It goes without saying that since most of the variants of a Damselfish are saltwater species, you need to use marine water in the tank.

How long do damselfish live?

The highly aggressive variants of Damselfish tend to live longer than the moderately aggressive ones. This fish can live up to 10-12 years, which is pretty long for an aquarium species. In fact, some variants of this fish can live up to 18-20 years.

What is the best fish to keep in an aquarium?

Hardy by nature and great to look at, Damselfish are an excellent choice of pet for your aquarium. As long as you are not obsessed with keeping multiple different kinds of fish in your tank, they will serve you good since they don’t bore well with intrusion from other species, owing to their aggressive nature. We hope our care guide has put you in a better position to take care of them. So, choose from their many variants and bring this amazing fish to your home.

What fish has a blue body?

Yellowtail Damselfish. Yellowtail Damselfish (Chrysiptera parasema) have a blue body and a distinct yellow caudal fin (tail fin). The pelvic fins of this fish are also yellow in color and in few cases; the color yellow is also extended to the back of their dorsal and anal fins as well.

Why do damselfish die?

Probably the biggest reason for death or illness in Damselfish is due to a high exposure to ammonia over a long period of time . It leads to their body transforming to a dark color and/or spots on their tail and eventual death.

Where is the Domino Damselfish native to?

The Domino Damselfish (Dascyllus trimaculatus) grows up to a length of 5” (12 cm). It is also known as Threespot Dascyllus because of the spots on its body. Having a distinct look from most of the other variants of Damselfish, it is extremely aggressive in nature. It is native to the Indo-Pacific region, mainly in the Red Sea, East Africa, Pitcairn Islands, Australia, and Japan.

What color are damselfish?

Damselfish are known for their deep-colored bodies that can range anywhere between blue, red, yellow and orange. Some are even monochromatic in appearance, meaning they only come in black and/or white.

Can Damselfish Live with Angelfish?

Dwarf angelfish are quite compatible with starck, talbot, and yellowtail damselfish in a community tank environment. They share a similar semi-aggressive temperament and grow to be about the same size. When housing angels with damsels, make sure not to overcrowd the tank as this leads to heightened aggression in both fish.

Can Damselfish Live with Clownfish?

As clownfish are a sub-species of damselfish, they can co-habitat with other damsels of similar size and temperament in a community tank environment. Blue and green chromis fish make great tankmates for percula or ocellaris clownfish as they tend to be less aggressive in nature.

Can Damselfish Live with Triggerfish?

Triggerfish tend to be more aggressive in nature and therefore, need to be housed with smaller, faster, more vigilant fish of like temperament – namely the damselfish. In an extra-large tank with plenty of space to claim territory and hide, if need be, these two fish can live quite amicably together.

What are the Best Tankmates for Azure Damselfish?

Azure damsels are among the most peaceful damselfish and can be kept in a species-only tank or with other fish of like temperament. Dartfish, gobies, and wrasses make great tankmates for azures – who are best kept in small groups or mated pairs in a community environment. Never keep azures with larger, predatory fish are they’re bound to get eaten!

What are the Best Tankmates for Blue Devil Damselfish?

Blue devil damselfish are among the most aggressive of their species. Therefore, they need to be kept in male/female pairs with larger fish that hold their own such as angels, butterflies, and groupers. Potential tankmates must be chosen carefully as blue damsels are known to harass much larger fish, especially when they invade their territory.

What are the Best Tankmates for Domino Damselfish?

Highly aggressive in nature, domino damsels may be small but will chase after fish twice their size should they feel their territory is being invaded or their offspring are under attack! They’re best kept in small groups in a species-only tank or with other fish of similar temperament including angelfish, dottybacks, and puffers.

What are the Best Tankmates for Neon Velvet Damselfish?

Neon velvet damsels are similar in temperament to dominos and as such, can also be kept with other aggressive fish like angels, dottybacks, and puffers. Providing them with plenty of tank space will help keep their aggression at bay.

image

Overview

Image
Scientific name: Chrysiptera cyanea, Dascyllus trimaculatus, Dascyllus aruanus, Chrysiptera taupou, Chrysiptera parasema, Abudefduf saxatilis, Pomacentrus smithi, Chrysiptera talboti Damselfish are active and colorful marine fish. Damselfishare a close relative of clownfish. Recommended for beginning marine …
See more on petco.com

Typical Appearance and Behavior

  1. Can be very territorial toward same species. Damsels become more territorial as they age
  2. Damsels like to hide in or near a cave, coral or crevice, darting out to defend territory or capture food
  3. Damsels inhabit all levels of the aquarium
  4. Some damsels change color as they mature from juveniles to adults
See more on petco.com

Habitat

  • Habitat size
    A minimum of 29 gallonsis recommended for smaller-sized adult damsels. A larger aquarium will be needed for larger species.
  • Building your habitat
    1. Water health -Provide proper filtration to ensure optimal water quality to help maintain health. Moderate to strong water circulation, based on species, should be provided to mimic water currents found in the damsel’s natural habitat. Stable water quality (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite…
See more on petco.com

Feeding

  • What to feed your damsel
    A well-balanced damsel diet consists of: 1. Flakes, pellets, freeze-dried and frozen food 2. A variedVary diet to ensure proper nutritional balance Things to remember when feeding your damsel: 1. Depending on species and size, feed small amounts two to three times daily, no mor…
See more on petco.com

Damsel Care

  1. Water care: Maintaining great water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration is important to help keep your damsels healthy
  2. Avoid overcrowded conditions as this is a major cause of stress and disease. Maintain good water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration
See more on petco.com

Where to Buy

  • In store and online Damsels are available for purchase at Petco online and in store; availability varies by location. If visiting your local location, call ahead to check availability.
See more on petco.com

Supplies

Tank Mates

  • Compatible with: 1. Anthias 2. Clownfish 3. Dwarf and large angelfish 4. Blennies 5. Basslets 6. Hawkfish 7. Foxface/rabbitfish 8. Dartfish 9. Gobies 10. Butterflyfish 11. Hogfish 12. Pseudochromis 13. Puffers 14. Tangs 15. Wrasse Can be compatible with some cardinalfish.
See more on petco.com

Health

  • Signs of a healthy fish
    1. Clear eyes 2. Healthy appetite 3. Active swimming 4. Fins completely intact and undamaged 5. Bright, even coloring 6. Free of parasites or disease
  • Red flags
    1. Loss of color or appetite 2. Spots or fungus on body or mouth 3. Listlessness 4. Labored breathing 5. Cloudy eyes 6. Weight loss 7. Erratic swimming 8. Frayed fins
See more on petco.com

FAQs

  1. What do damsel fish eat?Damsels should be offered a variety of flakes, pellets, freeze-dried and frozen diets
  2. Can damsels live with clownfish?Some damsel and clownfish species can make good tank mates if provided enough space. Always research compatibility when selecting new fish to add to the aquarium.
See more on petco.com

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9