How to Identify Jewel Damsel

To identify Jewel Damsel (Plectroglyphidodon lacrymatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically a dark, iridescent blue to black, adorned with numerous small, bright white to light blue spots scattered across the body, head, and fins. The intensity and number of these spots can vary slightly between individuals and with age. The fins are generally dark, often matching the body coloration, with some white spotting.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Numerous small, bright white spots resembling jewels or tears across the body and fins., Deep, compressed body shape., Small, terminal mouth., Relatively large eyes.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12 spines and 14-17 soft rays. The spiny and soft-rayed portions are continuous.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is slightly forked or emarginate, with rounded lobes.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are clear to dusky, moderately sized.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are typically dark and positioned ventrally, just behind the pectoral fins. Anal fin has 2 spines and 13-15 soft rays.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   White Spots

   The most distinguishing feature is the scattering of bright white, tear-drop shaped or jewel-like spots over its dark body. These spots are usually more prominent on the flanks.

2. 2

   Body Color

   The base body color is a deep, often iridescent, dark blue to black, which provides a strong contrast to the white spots.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Possesses a typical damselfish body plan: deep-bodied and laterally compressed, with a relatively small mouth.

4. 4

   Behavior

   Often observed actively defending a small territory around a coral head or rock crevice, darting out to chase away intruders.

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