Dascyllus aruanus

Datasheet

General Description

The Three Stripe Damselfish, scientifically known as Dascyllus aruanus, is a member of the Pomacentridae family. Also referred to as the White-tailed Damselfish, this species is similar to chromis in behavior but lacks the vivid colors. They are known to be aggressive towards other species and typically prefer having their own territory.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for most aquariums, Three Stripe Damselfish are hardy and can adapt well to varying water conditions. They are territorial and can display aggression towards most approaching fishes, making them more suitable to be kept as a single individual or in a shoal with proper spacing.

Demands, Care and Hardiness

These damselfish are known to be hardy and can thrive in aquariums with stable water conditions. They prefer hiding among stony corals like Acropora and appreciate having other hiding spots in the tank. Providing them with a suitable environment and a proper diet can help in maintaining their health and well-being.

Reef Suitability

Regarded as always reef safe, Three Stripe Damselfish can coexist peacefully with coral reefs. Their territorial nature might lead to some aggression towards other tank mates if they come too close to their hiding spots.

Aquarium Setup

For housing Three Stripe Damselfish, it is advisable to have a tank capacity of at least 100 liters. Creating a setup with stony corals, particularly those with branches where they can hide, is recommended. Additionally, providing ample space and suitable hiding places can help reduce aggression towards other tank inhabitants.

Behaviour

These damselfish exhibit territorial behavior and can be aggressive towards other species that encroach on their space. They are known to swim in shoals initially but may show aggression towards each other once they establish their territory within the aquarium.

Feeding and Diet

The diet of Three Stripe Damselfish typically includes microalgae like spirulina, small crustaceans such as krill and mysis, and zooplankton like Cyclops and pods. Feeding them a varied diet multiple times a day can help maintain their health and vitality in the aquarium.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Three Stripe Damselfish have the ability to change gender from female to male. In a shoal, it is recommended to have one male to several females to reduce aggression within the group. As for captive reproduction, these fish can reproduce successfully under suitable conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

Originally found in the Indo-West Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa to southern Japan and Sydney, Australia, Three Stripe Damselfish inhabit coral reefs and areas with stony corals where they can establish their territories and hide amongst the branches.