The Azure Damselfish (Chrysiptera hemicyanea), also known as the Azure Demoiselle or Half-blue Demoiselle, is a species of damselfish. It is a popular aquarium fish.

Distribution and Habitat

The Azure Damselfish is native to the eastern Indian Ocean and western Pacific. It is found in greatest population in the Coral Triangle from the Solomon Islands to Indonesia, Bali, and the Philippines. Typically found in waters 1 to 38 meters deep and are non-migratory.

Physical Description

This tropical marine fish reaches 7 cm (2.8 in) in length. It is mostly bright blue in color with a bright yellow bottom. The specific name hemicyanea means half blue referring to the blue head and upper body.

Diet and Feeding

The Azure Damselfish feeds primarily on plankton and small invertebrates. In captivity it is quite hardy and will eat just about anything including fish flakes and frozen brine shrimp.

Behavior and Reproduction

Reproduction involves mating pairs followed by a benthic egg-laying life cycle where eggs are adhered to a substrate and a male stays around to guard and aerate the eggs. This species is considered a schooling fish but is quite aggressive and territorial. Fish that invade the area are harassed.

Aquarium Care

In captivity they are quite hardy and easy to take care of. They can tolerate some minor changes in water chemistry and are recommended for beginners. It requires a tank of at least 20 gallons with plenty of structure like coral or live rock. It is considered reef-safe.

Conservation Status

Classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN Red List due to coral reef habitat degradation.