How to Identify Azure Damselfish

To identify Azure Damselfish (Chrysiptera hemicyanea), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is an iridescent, brilliant blue, transitioning sharply to a bright yellow caudal fin. The dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins are typically blue, matching the body. Some individuals may exhibit a slight yellow tint on the posterior part of the dorsal and anal fins.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Vibrant blue body coloration, Bright yellow caudal fin, Small size, typically reaching 5-7 cm (2-2.8 inches) in total length

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 13 spines and 10-12 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, distinctly yellow.

Pectoral fin

Transparent to slightly bluish pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

The sharp demarcation between the blue body and yellow caudal fin is a key identifier.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   Look for the unmistakable combination of a brilliant blue body and a bright yellow tail. This is the most defining characteristic.

2. 2

   Size

   Adults are small, usually not exceeding 7 cm (2.8 inches). This helps distinguish them from larger damselfish species.

3. 3

   Habitat

   Observe their behavior around branching corals in shallow reef environments. They tend to hover near shelter.

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