Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Goldtail Damsel, also referred to as the Emperor Damsel, is found around reefs of the Soloman Islands, Papua New Guinea and eastern parts of Indonesia. Formerly referred to as Chrysiptera cf parasema due to its resemblance to the Yellowtail Blue Damsel (C. parasema), this species became formally described in 2010. To distinguish arnazae from parasema, look for not only a bright yellow caudal fin, but yellow on the ends of the dorsal, anal and pelvic fins as well. Damsels come from the Pomacentridae family, which they share with Chromis and Clownfish. Goldtail damsels are admired by both beginner and experienced hobbyists alike because of their durability and presence in the aquarium. They are a great candidate “first fish” to add into a newer aquarium given their hardy nature. While Goldtail damsels are one of the least aggressive damselfish, as are most members of the Chrysiptera genus, nippy behavior is typically encountered when damsels are kept in too small of an aquarium and in too few of numbers. It is best practice to keep damsels in small groups (6+ individuals) to help avoid this, but such behaviors ultimately vary individual to individual. The Goldtail damsel may be confused with the Azure damsel (Chrysiptera hemicyanea), but note the gold/yellow belly of the Azure damsel. An adult Goldtail damsel can reach a size of approximately 2-3/4″. Note: This species is infrequently available.

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 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a group of Goldtail damsels, but these fish can certainly thrive in much larger tanks. A set-up with live rock is best for the health of the aquarium, and these damselfish require 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. At Aquatics Unlimited, we try to offer damselfish that have a temperament which is generally compatible in an array of set-ups. While our experience with Goldtail damsels is that they will typically ignore most other fish, observation after introduction is still warranted. Goldtail damsels are reef safe; they will not bother any coral or invertebrate. Chrysiptera damsels should not be housed with more aggressive damsel species, such as those from the Abudefduf, Amblyglyphidodon, Dascyllus, Microspathodon, Neoglyphidodon, and Stegastes genera. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Medium: 3/4″ to 1-1/2″

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