How to Identify Whitetail Damsel

To identify Whitetail Damsel (Pomacentrus chrysurus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is typically dark brown to black, often with a bluish or purplish sheen, especially on the head and anterior body. The most distinctive feature is the caudal fin, which is bright white to yellowish-white, providing a stark contrast to the dark body. Juveniles may exhibit a more intense blue coloration and often have an ocellated spot on the posterior dorsal fin, which fades with age.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright white to yellowish-white caudal fin., Dark body coloration, often with iridescent blue or purple hues., Small size, typically reaching up to 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) in total length.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 13 spines and 13-15 soft rays. The spinous portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Forked caudal fin, distinctly white or yellowish-white.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are clear to slightly yellowish, with 17-19 rays.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 2 spines and 13-15 soft rays. Pelvic fins are dark, matching the body coloration.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Caudal Fin Color

   The most reliable identifier is the bright white to yellowish-white caudal fin, which contrasts sharply with the dark body.

2. 2

   Body Coloration

   Observe the overall dark brown to black body, often with iridescent blue or purple highlights, especially on the head and anterior body.

3. 3

   Juvenile Markings

   In juveniles, look for a prominent ocellated (eye-like) spot on the posterior part of the dorsal fin, which diminishes or disappears in adults.

4. 4

   Size and Shape

   Note the typical damsel body shape – compressed and relatively deep-bodied, reaching a maximum size of about 10 cm.

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