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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 113 litres / 29.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 7.6cm / 2.99inches |
| Reef Compatible | Yes |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Care Description | Easy |
| Specific Gravity | 1.020-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Ternate Damselfish, also known as the Lemon Chromis, is a visually striking marine fish with a stately green coloration that contrasts beautifully with the translucent hues of its tail and fins. Resembling the Yellow Damselfish, this species adds flashes of dramatic color to any aquarium setting.
Aquarium Suitability
The Ternate Damselfish is an easy-to-care-for species, suitable for both new and experienced aquarists. Its hardy nature makes it a great addition to fish-only marine or reef aquariums. It generally coexists peacefully with other tank mates, but territorial behavior may surface as it matures.
Demands, Care and Hardiness
Thriving in sheltered coastal reefs of the Indo-Pacific, the Ternate Damselfish is known to ignore other fish, invertebrates, or corals. To mitigate potential territorial disputes, a tank of at least 30 gallons with ample live rock for hiding spots is recommended. Proper care involves a varied diet including meaty items, herbivore flakes, and frozen preparations to maintain its vivid body coloration.
Reef Suitability
This species is deemed reef-compatible, allowing for inclusion in reef aquarium setups without posing harm to corals or other reef inhabitants.
Aquarium Setup
An aquarium housing the Ternate Damselfish should ideally have multiple hiding spots created by live rock formations to emulate its natural habitat. Maintaining water parameters within the ranges of pH 8.1-8.4, dKH 8-12, and specific gravity of 1.020-1.025 is crucial for its well-being.
Behaviour
The Ternate Damselfish exhibits semi-aggressive behavior, particularly as it matures. While typically peaceful towards other tank mates, it may display territorial tendencies towards similar-sized fish or its own kind.
Feeding and Diet
As an omnivorous species, the Ternate Damselfish benefits from a varied diet comprising meaty items, herbivore flakes, and frozen preparations. Including algae-based foods in its diet can help maintain its vibrant coloration.
Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction
With notable similarities between male and female Ternate Damselfish, dimorphism is not easily distinguished. In captivity, they are known to lay egg masses on coral skeletons or dead portions of Acropora corals, demonstrating spawning behavior.
Habitat and Distribution
The Ternate Damselfish is native to the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting coral-rich areas of sheltered coastal reefs. This species can be found in a variety of habitats where they seek shelter among coral formations.