Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded humbug (Dascyllus aruanus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The whitetail dascyllus (Dascyllus aruanus) is a small, striking reef fish of the family Pomacentridae from the Indian and Pacific Oceans. The species has a tall, laterally compressed white body with three black vertical bands and a white tail, and reaches about 10 cm. It is territorial and inhabits shallow lagoons and reef flats, where groups stay above branching corals such as Acropora; when threatened they dive among the coral branches. The diet consists of zooplankton, bottom invertebrates and algae. Owing to its handsome pattern and robust nature the species is popular in marine aquaria.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded humbug?
The Banded humbug has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. White body with three black bars; shelters among branching coral when threatened.
Where does the Banded humbug live?
The Banded humbug lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Shallow lagoons and reef flats of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
How big does the Banded humbug get?
The Banded humbug grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Banded humbug dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded humbug is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Banded humbug edible?
The Banded humbug is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Dascyllus
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Banded humbug?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded humbug is one of 12,519 species in the app.