đ Yellowtail Blue Damsel (Chrysiptera parasema)
The Yellowtail Blue Damsel is one of the best damselfish for reef aquariums - beautiful blue body with a bright yellow tail, hardy as nails, and significantly less aggressive than its notorious relatives. It's often recommended as an excellent first marine fish.
đ Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Chrysiptera parasema |
|---|---|
| Adult Size | 2.5 inches (6 cm) |
| Minimum Tank | 20 gallons (75 liters) |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive (much less than other damsels) |
| Reef Safe | Yes |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Lifespan | 5+ years |
| Origin | Western Pacific |
â Why This Damsel is Different
Unlike the infamous Blue Devil Damsel, Yellowtails are:
- Much less aggressive
- Can coexist with most community fish
- Rarely terrorize tankmates
- Stay smaller
đ Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum
- Rockwork: Hiding spots appreciated
- Water quality: Very tolerant but appreciates good conditions
Water Parameters
| Temperature | 74-82°F (23-28°C) |
|---|---|
| pH | 8.0-8.4 |
| Salinity | 1.020-1.026 |
đŊī¸ Diet & Feeding
Omnivore - eats virtually anything offered.
- Flakes, pellets, frozen foods
- Mysis, brine shrimp
- Will eat algae too
Feed 2-3 times daily.
đ Compatibility
Good Tankmates
- Clownfish
- Tangs
- Wrasses
- Most community fish
Notes
- May chase similar-sized fish initially
- Aggression usually settles down
- Less problematic than blue devil damsels
đĄ Tips for Success
- Excellent first marine fish
- Nearly indestructible
- Can cycle tanks (though not recommended anymore)
- Small groups work in larger tanks
- Add before more territorial fish
đ Summary
The Yellowtail Blue Damsel is the "good damsel" - all the hardiness with much less attitude. Their stunning blue and yellow coloration, bulletproof constitution, and relatively peaceful nature make them ideal beginner fish. Unlike other damsels that often must be removed due to aggression, Yellowtails typically remain good community members throughout their lives.