Indian Damsel
NameIndian Damsel
Scientific NameNeoglyphidodon melas
Common NamesBlack-and-white Damselfish, Black Damselfish, Bowtie Damselfish, Indian Damsel
FamilyPomacentridae
OriginIndo-Pacific, Indian Ocean, Red Sea, Western Pacific
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)50
Max Size (Inches)7
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarger Angelfish, Triggerfish (with caution), Some Wrasses, Other robust Damselfish (in very large tanks)
Description
The Indian Damsel, also known as the Black-and-white Damselfish, is a hardy and territorial marine fish. While juveniles are bright yellow and black, adults develop a dark brown to black body with a distinctive net-like scale pattern and often a prominent black spot on the operculum. They are omnivores that require a varied diet and a sufficiently large tank to manage their aggressive tendencies.
