How to Identify Black Damsel Fish

To identify Black Damsel Fish (Neoglyphidodon melas), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Juveniles are black with a prominent white or bluish saddle on the back and a white band on the caudal peduncle, often with a white snout. As they mature, these markings fade, and adults become uniformly dark brown to black, sometimes with a slightly lighter ventral side. The fins are typically dark.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Dramatic color change from juvenile to adult, Robust, deep body, Small, terminal mouth

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 13 spines and 14-16 soft rays. The spiny portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Slightly forked or emarginate caudal fin.

Pectoral fin

Rounded pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are typically dark and relatively short.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Juvenile Coloration

   Look for the striking black body with a white saddle and caudal peduncle band. This is a key identifier for younger individuals.

2. 2

   Adult Coloration

   Adults are uniformly dark brown to black. The robust body shape and typical damsel fish fin structure help confirm identification.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   The deep, compressed body is characteristic of the genus Neoglyphidodon.

4. 4

   Behavior

   Observe its territorial behavior, often seen defending a patch of coral or rock.

Explore Black Damsel Fish