Jewel Damselfish (Microspathodon Chrysurus)
Jewel Damselfish (Microspathodon chrysurus)
The Jewel Damselfish, also known as the Yellowtail Damselfish (not to be confused with the smaller Chrysiptera species), is one of the most striking but misunderstood fish in the hobby. As a juvenile, it is arguably one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean. However, it undergoes a massive transformation as it grows—both in appearance and in attitude. It is the "heavyweight" of the damselfish world.
Key Information
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Common Names: Jewel Damselfish, Marine Jewelfish, Yellowtail Damselfish
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Scientific Name: Microspathodon chrysurus
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Origin: Western Atlantic (Caribbean, Florida, Gulf of Mexico)
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Max Size: 18–20 cm (approx. 7–8 inches) — significantly larger than most damsels.
-
Lifespan: 10–15 years
-
Temperament: Very Aggressive; highly territorial
-
Diet: Omnivore – Primarily an algae grazer in the wild
-
Care Level: Very Easy (Hardy)
Appearance: The Great Transformation
The Jewel Damselfish is famous for its dramatic aging process:
-
The Juvenile: A stunning, deep midnight blue to black body covered in iridescent, glowing neon-blue "jewel" spots. At this stage, it looks like a swimming galaxy.
-
The Adult: As it matures, the neon spots fade or disappear entirely. The body turns a dark brownish-black, and the caudal fin (tail) turns a bright, contrasting yellow.
-
The Size: Unlike the tiny blue damsels, the Jewel grows into a thick, muscular, and imposing fish.
Behaviour & Tank Compatibility
-
Territorial Dominance: This fish is a "territorial powerhouse." In the wild, they defend "algae gardens" and will attack anything—including divers—that gets too close. In a tank, they will claim a large portion of the rockwork and defend it with extreme prejudice.
-
Aggression Level: High. It is not a community fish. It will bully smaller fish, other damsels, and even larger fish like Tangs if it feels they are encroaching on its space.
-
Reef Safe: Yes, with Caution. They do not eat corals, but their constant "gardening" and aggressive behavior can stress out tank mates. They may also nip at small crustaceans.
-
Tank Mates: Only house with large, assertive fish. Think large Triggers, Groupers, or very aggressive Tangs. Do not keep with peaceful fish, wrasses, or blennies.
Ideal Tank Setup
-
Tank Size: Due to its size and aggression, a minimum of 285L–380L (75–100 Gallons) is required for an adult.
-
Rockwork: Provide plenty of heavy rockwork with large caves. They need a "fortress" to call home. Ensure rocks are stable, as they are strong enough to move small pieces.
-
Dietary Needs: They are opportunistic feeders. Provide a mix of algae-based foods (Nori, Spirulina) and meaty frozen foods like mysis and brine shrimp. They are excellent at cleaning up film algae in the tank.
-
Hardiness: They are incredibly resilient. They can tolerate fluctuations in water quality that would be fatal to other species, making them "bulletproof" but difficult to remove once established.
Why Choose the Jewel Damselfish?
The Jewel Damselfish is for the hobbyist who wants a bold, tough, and long-lived inhabitant for an aggressive FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) or large reef system. While many people buy them for their "galaxy" juvenile look, you must be prepared for the large, yellow-tailed warrior they become. If you appreciate a fish with a massive personality and the ability to hold its own against the toughest tank mates, the Jewel is a classic choice.
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Jewel Damselfish (Microspathodon Chrysurus)
Jewel Damselfish (Microspathodon Chrysurus)
Jewel Damselfish (Microspathodon chrysurus)
The Jewel Damselfish, also known as the Yellowtail Damselfish (not to be confused with the smaller Chrysiptera species), is one of the most striking but misunderstood fish in the hobby. As a juvenile, it is arguably one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean. However, it undergoes a massive transformation as it grows—both in appearance and in attitude. It is the "heavyweight" of the damselfish world.
Key Information
-
Common Names: Jewel Damselfish, Marine Jewelfish, Yellowtail Damselfish
-
Scientific Name: Microspathodon chrysurus
-
Origin: Western Atlantic (Caribbean, Florida, Gulf of Mexico)
-
Max Size: 18–20 cm (approx. 7–8 inches) — significantly larger than most damsels.
-
Lifespan: 10–15 years
-
Temperament: Very Aggressive; highly territorial
-
Diet: Omnivore – Primarily an algae grazer in the wild
-
Care Level: Very Easy (Hardy)
Appearance: The Great Transformation
The Jewel Damselfish is famous for its dramatic aging process:
-
The Juvenile: A stunning, deep midnight blue to black body covered in iridescent, glowing neon-blue "jewel" spots. At this stage, it looks like a swimming galaxy.
-
The Adult: As it matures, the neon spots fade or disappear entirely. The body turns a dark brownish-black, and the caudal fin (tail) turns a bright, contrasting yellow.
-
The Size: Unlike the tiny blue damsels, the Jewel grows into a thick, muscular, and imposing fish.
Behaviour & Tank Compatibility
-
Territorial Dominance: This fish is a "territorial powerhouse." In the wild, they defend "algae gardens" and will attack anything—including divers—that gets too close. In a tank, they will claim a large portion of the rockwork and defend it with extreme prejudice.
-
Aggression Level: High. It is not a community fish. It will bully smaller fish, other damsels, and even larger fish like Tangs if it feels they are encroaching on its space.
-
Reef Safe: Yes, with Caution. They do not eat corals, but their constant "gardening" and aggressive behavior can stress out tank mates. They may also nip at small crustaceans.
-
Tank Mates: Only house with large, assertive fish. Think large Triggers, Groupers, or very aggressive Tangs. Do not keep with peaceful fish, wrasses, or blennies.
Ideal Tank Setup
-
Tank Size: Due to its size and aggression, a minimum of 285L–380L (75–100 Gallons) is required for an adult.
-
Rockwork: Provide plenty of heavy rockwork with large caves. They need a "fortress" to call home. Ensure rocks are stable, as they are strong enough to move small pieces.
-
Dietary Needs: They are opportunistic feeders. Provide a mix of algae-based foods (Nori, Spirulina) and meaty frozen foods like mysis and brine shrimp. They are excellent at cleaning up film algae in the tank.
-
Hardiness: They are incredibly resilient. They can tolerate fluctuations in water quality that would be fatal to other species, making them "bulletproof" but difficult to remove once established.
Why Choose the Jewel Damselfish?
The Jewel Damselfish is for the hobbyist who wants a bold, tough, and long-lived inhabitant for an aggressive FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) or large reef system. While many people buy them for their "galaxy" juvenile look, you must be prepared for the large, yellow-tailed warrior they become. If you appreciate a fish with a massive personality and the ability to hold its own against the toughest tank mates, the Jewel is a classic choice.
Original: $17.88
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$6.26Product Information
Product Information
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Description
Jewel Damselfish (Microspathodon chrysurus)
The Jewel Damselfish, also known as the Yellowtail Damselfish (not to be confused with the smaller Chrysiptera species), is one of the most striking but misunderstood fish in the hobby. As a juvenile, it is arguably one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean. However, it undergoes a massive transformation as it grows—both in appearance and in attitude. It is the "heavyweight" of the damselfish world.
Key Information
-
Common Names: Jewel Damselfish, Marine Jewelfish, Yellowtail Damselfish
-
Scientific Name: Microspathodon chrysurus
-
Origin: Western Atlantic (Caribbean, Florida, Gulf of Mexico)
-
Max Size: 18–20 cm (approx. 7–8 inches) — significantly larger than most damsels.
-
Lifespan: 10–15 years
-
Temperament: Very Aggressive; highly territorial
-
Diet: Omnivore – Primarily an algae grazer in the wild
-
Care Level: Very Easy (Hardy)
Appearance: The Great Transformation
The Jewel Damselfish is famous for its dramatic aging process:
-
The Juvenile: A stunning, deep midnight blue to black body covered in iridescent, glowing neon-blue "jewel" spots. At this stage, it looks like a swimming galaxy.
-
The Adult: As it matures, the neon spots fade or disappear entirely. The body turns a dark brownish-black, and the caudal fin (tail) turns a bright, contrasting yellow.
-
The Size: Unlike the tiny blue damsels, the Jewel grows into a thick, muscular, and imposing fish.
Behaviour & Tank Compatibility
-
Territorial Dominance: This fish is a "territorial powerhouse." In the wild, they defend "algae gardens" and will attack anything—including divers—that gets too close. In a tank, they will claim a large portion of the rockwork and defend it with extreme prejudice.
-
Aggression Level: High. It is not a community fish. It will bully smaller fish, other damsels, and even larger fish like Tangs if it feels they are encroaching on its space.
-
Reef Safe: Yes, with Caution. They do not eat corals, but their constant "gardening" and aggressive behavior can stress out tank mates. They may also nip at small crustaceans.
-
Tank Mates: Only house with large, assertive fish. Think large Triggers, Groupers, or very aggressive Tangs. Do not keep with peaceful fish, wrasses, or blennies.
Ideal Tank Setup
-
Tank Size: Due to its size and aggression, a minimum of 285L–380L (75–100 Gallons) is required for an adult.
-
Rockwork: Provide plenty of heavy rockwork with large caves. They need a "fortress" to call home. Ensure rocks are stable, as they are strong enough to move small pieces.
-
Dietary Needs: They are opportunistic feeders. Provide a mix of algae-based foods (Nori, Spirulina) and meaty frozen foods like mysis and brine shrimp. They are excellent at cleaning up film algae in the tank.
-
Hardiness: They are incredibly resilient. They can tolerate fluctuations in water quality that would be fatal to other species, making them "bulletproof" but difficult to remove once established.
Why Choose the Jewel Damselfish?
The Jewel Damselfish is for the hobbyist who wants a bold, tough, and long-lived inhabitant for an aggressive FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) or large reef system. While many people buy them for their "galaxy" juvenile look, you must be prepared for the large, yellow-tailed warrior they become. If you appreciate a fish with a massive personality and the ability to hold its own against the toughest tank mates, the Jewel is a classic choice.
