How to Identify Yellowfin Damselfish

To identify Yellowfin Damselfish (Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Body is typically silvery-white to light grey, sometimes with a faint yellowish wash, especially dorsally. The most striking feature is the bright yellow coloration of the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins. Pectoral fins are hyaline to yellowish. Some individuals may exhibit a subtle dark spot at the base of the pectoral fin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright yellow dorsal, anal, and caudal fins., Silvery-white body coloration., Relatively deep, compressed body.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 13 spines and 11-12 soft rays. The spinous and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, distinctly yellow.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are clear to yellowish, with 17-18 rays.

Distinctive fins

All median fins (dorsal, anal, caudal) are prominently yellow, contrasting sharply with the body.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Fin Coloration

   The most reliable identification feature is the vivid yellow coloration of the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, which stands out against the paler body.

2. 2

   Body Coloration

   The body is predominantly silvery-white to light grey, lacking prominent bars or spots, which helps distinguish it from other damselfish species.

3. 3

   Habitat Preference

   Look for this species among branching corals on reef slopes and in lagoons, often in small groups.

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