Care Level: Easy

Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Springer’s Damsel, also known as the Blue Sapphire Damsel or Royal Blue Damsel, originate from Indonesia. They’re named appropriately for their brilliant blue coloration and blotches that make them shimmer like a gem. Damsels come from the Pomacentridae family, which they share with Chromis and Clownfish. Springer’s 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 Springer’s 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. Springer’s damsels are one of the few species aquarists tend to add only a single individual of to a set-up, but small groups (6+ individuals) can be kept successfully together and are encouraged to also alleviate potential nippy behavior. Such behaviors, however, ultimately vary individual to individual. Springer’s damsels can be distinguished from both Yellowtail blue and Azure damsels (Chrysiptera parasema/hemicyanea) because Springer’s have zero yellow on them. Springer’s damsels have been observed to eat nuisance Planaria flatworms, making them a great reef candidate fish. An adult Springer’s damsel can reach a size of approximately 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 30 gallon aquarium is ideal for a single or group of Springer’s 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 Springer’s damsels is that they will typically ignore most other fish, observation after introduction is still warranted. Springer’s 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.