Azure damselfish
Chrysiptera hemicyanea
Where at Shedd?
Wild Reef
| Diet | Algae, zooplankton, phytoplankton |
|---|---|
| Size | Up to 2.7 inches (7 cm) |
| Type | Fishes |
| Range | Indo-West Pacific |
| Habitat | Lagoons, near shore reefs |
About the Azure damselfish
The striking two-toned azure damselfish is common around Indonesia and the eastern part of the Indian Ocean. For protection, they prefer to live in groups near small stony coral.
Did you know?
There are several blue and yellow damselfish, so how can you tell the difference? Look at the dorsal fin on the back and the anal fin near the tail — the azure damselfish's are yellow.
Males have more yellow coloring than females or juveniles.
Their Latin name, hemicyanea, translates to partially (hemi) dark blue (cyanea).
The damselfish is from a family of more than 300 species including the clownfish. Talk about a colorful family reunion.