Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Aggressive

Reef Compatible: With Caution

General Description: The Four Striped Damsel, also known as the 4-Stripe Damsel and Blacktail Damsel, are found throughout the Indo-Pacific. This damsel is named appropriately for their four solid black stripes that run vertically along their pearly-white bodies. Similar to the 3-Stripe Damsel (D. aruanus), though the Four striped damsel has its additional “fourth” stripe along the edge of its tail distinguishing it from the all white tail of the 3-Stripe Damsel. A hardy and attractive fish, the Four striped damsel will quickly grow up from its cute size into a terror that will not hesitate to harass tank mates several times their size. For this reason, great care should be taken when considering this species, or any Dascyllus damsel, for your aquarium. Four striped damsels would do best in a big aquarium with aggressive species such as larger angelfish, dottybacks, triggers, puffers, and other pugnacious damselfish [such as those from the Abudefduf, Amblyglyphidodon, Dascyllus, Microspathodon, Neoglyphidodon, and Stegastes genera]. Maintaining a group of Four striped damsels could help to deter nippy behavior toward tank mates, but this is not guaranteed. An adult Four striped damsel can reach a size of approximately 3-1/2″.

Diet Requirements: In the wild damselfish are omnivorous. A varied diet of high quality algae, proteins, pellets, flakes, and enriched frozen foods are important for best coloration, immune function and optimal health. Damsels are some of the unfussiest of saltwater livestock when it comes to feeding.

Care Requirements: A minimum 90 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of Four striped damsels, but the bigger the better due to their temperament. A set-up with live rock is best for the health of the aquarium, and these damselfish will appreciate crevices to swim through and take refuge. Damselfish are one of the few groups of fish that can endure the break-in cycle of a new saltwater aquarium, but establishing this species too soon in the aquarium will almost always cause trouble for future additions. Dascyllus damsels can be very territorial, so observation is warranted. While Four striped damsels will not harm any coral or invertebrate, they are to be added “with caution” into a reef aquarium because they are incompatible with the majority of reef-inhabitant species. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Medium: 1” to 1-1/2”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.