Fin's Fish Guide
The Black damsel (Neoglyphidodon melas) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The bowtie damselfish is a damselfish (Pomacentridae) from the Indo-West Pacific. Adults are entirely jet-black, while juveniles are brightly coloured white, yellow and blue. They live in coral-rich parts of lagoon and seaward reefs, often near soft corals and gorgonians. Adults feed among other things on the polyps of soft corals, on algae and on small zooplankton from the water column. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black damsel?
The Black damsel has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Adults jet black, juveniles bright white-yellow-blue; eats soft coral polyps among other things.
Where does the Black damsel live?
The Black damsel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific; coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Black damsel get?
The Black damsel grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Black damsel dangerous to humans?
No, the Black damsel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black damsel edible?
The Black damsel 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 Neoglyphidodon
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Black damsel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black damsel is one of 12,519 species in the app.