Description
The Lemon Damselfish originates from the Western Pacific, however, the specimens sold here are captive-bred by ORA. The Lemon Damselfish is, as expected, the color of a lemon. As a juvenile it is a darker yellow, bordering on orange. As it grows older, the yellow will become lighter and softer, closer to the coloration of a lemon. Sometimes a faint iridescent blue becomes apparent along the top of the fins and as small speckles in other places of the body. In order to maintain the bright yellow coloration, make sure to feed plenty of algae-based foods. While they are aggressive compared to some peaceful fish, they are less aggressive than many other species of damselfish. If you have a large enough tank, you can keep a group of these little yellow fish. To do this, purchase an odd number of fish and add them all at the same time. ORA reports they have kept them with Yellowtail Blue Damsels, Sapphire Damels, and Clownfish. Beginners are often told to get damselfish as the first fish expecting the fish to die, but the problem is that some of them are not great for the long term in case they don’t die. The Lemon Damselfish, on the other hand, makes a great long-term fish as well as a first fish.
Care Requirements
Purchase Size: 1 – 1.25″
Feeding: Omnivore. Feed a mix of herbivore and meaty preparations. Feed live foods for healthier, more vibrant fish.
Water Parameters: ~78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Reef safe: Yes
Color: Yellow
More Information
There are several benefits to you and the ocean that come with buying captive-bred fish. They are hardier and more resilient to disease than their wild-caught counterparts. Along with that, they are better accustomed to aquarium life and better able to handle the stress of shipping. By purchasing captive-bred fish such as the Lemon Damselfish, you are helping the ocean by discouraging the destructive wild-caught trade while supporting the captive-bred industry. This makes our beloved hobby more sustainable.
