Domino Damselfish

Domino Damselfish

Dascyllus trimaculatus

Beginner Freshwater Juveniles are peaceful and gregarious, associating with anemones. Adults become extremely territorial and aggressive, dominating the aquarium. Drastic behavioral change with maturity. Pomacentridae
Max Size 10.0 cm (3.9")
Min Tank 150 L (40 gal)
Min Group 1+
Diet Omnivore. Accepts marine flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis and any food offered. Extremely easy to feed, eats voraciously.

Water Parameters

Temperature
24.0-27.0°C
75-81°F
pH
8.0-8.4
Hardness (dGH)
8.0-12.0
Min Tank Size
150 L
40 gal

About

The Domino Damsel is frequently purchased by beginners attracted to the beautiful juvenile coloration: a black body with three bright white spots (one on the forehead and one on each side). However, as it grows, the spots fade and the fish becomes extremely aggressive, making it one of the biggest traps for beginner marine aquarists.

Behavior & Temperament

Juveniles are peaceful and gregarious, associating with anemones. Adults become extremely territorial and aggressive, dominating the aquarium. Drastic behavioral change with maturity.

Feeding

Omnivore. Accepts marine flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis and any food offered. Extremely easy to feed, eats voraciously.

Breeding

Oviparous. Male prepares a nest and aggressively guards the eggs. Reproduction possible in an aquarium.

Care Notes

NOTE: Attractive and peaceful juveniles become aggressive and dominant adults. Consider carefully before acquiring. Large aquarium with many hiding places. Best kept as a single specimen in medium aquariums.

Compatibility

Juveniles appear harmless, but adults can terrorize the entire tank. Compatible only with large, assertive fish when adult. Avoid shy or delicate fish.

Quick Summary

Scientific NameDascyllus trimaculatus
FamilyPomacentridae
CategoryFish
Care LevelBeginner
Water TypeFreshwater
Max Size10.0 cm (3.9")
Min Tank150 L (40 gal)
Min Group1+
DietOmnivore. Accepts marine flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, mysis and any food offered. Extremely easy to feed, eats voraciously.
TemperamentJuveniles are peaceful and gregarious, associating with anemones. Adults become extremely territorial and aggressive, dominating the aquarium. Drastic behavioral change with maturity.

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