Fin's Fish Guide
The Black damsel (Stegastes nigricans) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The dusky farmerfish is a damselfish of the family Pomacentridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 14 cm and has a stocky, dark-brown body. Adults inhabit reef flats and lagoon reefs, often in coral-rich areas. It is a decidedly territorial 'farmer': it fiercely defends a patch of filamentous algae that it grazes and actively tends by removing unwanted algal species and intruders, a form of farming among fishes. As a predominantly herbivorous fish it feeds on those filamentous algae, supplemented with small invertebrates. 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 brown and shows a plain pattern. Territorial 'algae farmer' that grazes its own patch of filamentous algae and actively tends and defends it.
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-Pacific; reef flats and lagoon reefs in coral-rich areas.
How big does the Black damsel get?
The Black damsel grows to a maximum of about 14 cm. On average the species is around 9 cm.
Is the Black damsel dangerous to humans?
The Black damsel can cause injury; handle it with care. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black damsel edible?
The Black damsel is not usually eaten.
More photos
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.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stegastes
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.