Pomacentrus moluccensis

Datasheet

General Description

The Lemon Damselfish, also known as the Molucca Damsel or Molucca Demoiselle, displays a vibrant yellow coloration with potential blue accents on its head and fins. As it matures, the intensity of its yellow hue may slightly diminish, and it tends to become less shy in an aquarium setting.

Aquarium Suitability

The Lemon Damselfish, belonging to the Pomacentridae family, is a hardy species well-suited for both novice and experienced aquarists. Due to being more acclimated to typical home aquarium conditions compared to wild-caught counterparts, it thrives in captivity. While generally peaceful, some individuals may exhibit territorial behavior towards similar-sized fish or conspecifics.

Care and Hardiness

Being an easy-to-care-for species, the Lemon Damselfish requires a tank of 30 gallons or more with ample hiding spots. It is advisable to keep them in small groups of odd numbers to help disperse any aggression within the group.

Reef Suitability

When it comes to reef compatibility, the Lemon Damselfish can be accommodated in a reef tank, but caution is advisable due to its semi-aggressive nature. It may show some territorial behavior towards corals and invertebrates.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for Lemon Damselfish entails providing hiding places, a well-maintained tank of at least 113 liters, and stable water conditions with a pH range of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity between 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH.

Behaviour

The Lemon Damselfish typically exhibits a semi-aggressive temperament, but its behavior can vary depending on individual personality and tank dynamics. They are known to be relatively active swimmers, exploring their environment and interacting with tankmates.

Feeding and Diet

As omnivores, Lemon Damselfish thrive on a diet consisting of various meaty foods, herbivore preparations, and quality flakes. Offering a diverse range of food items ensures their nutritional needs are met and helps replicate their natural feeding behaviors.

Dimorphism

In terms of dimorphism, the Lemon Damselfish may exhibit subtle differences between males and females, but these distinctions are not prominently pronounced. Captive breeding of this species is feasible with proper care and suitable breeding conditions.

Habitat and Distribution

The Lemon Damselfish, scientifically known as Pomacentrus moluccensis, is native to the waters of the Molucca Islands. In the wild, they inhabit coral reefs and lagoons, showcasing their affinity for tropical marine environments rich in shelter and suitable food sources.