Fin's Fish Guide
The Black tail humbug (Dascyllus melanurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 8 cm.
Description
The blacktail humbug is a small damselfish (Pomacentridae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 8 cm and has a white body with three black crossbars and a black tail, to which the name refers. It is a schooling species whose adults inhabit sheltered lagoons, harbours and inlets, often near small coral heads or Acropora coral, into which they dart when threatened. It feeds on various plankton. The male guards the eggs laid on the substrate. The species is popular in the aquarium hobby and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Black tail humbug?
The Black tail humbug has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Three black vertical bars and a black tail; shelters in coral heads when threatened; aquarium fish.
Where does the Black tail humbug live?
The Black tail humbug lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific; sheltered lagoons and inlets.
How big does the Black tail humbug get?
The Black tail humbug grows to a maximum of about 8 cm.
Is the Black tail humbug dangerous to humans?
No, the Black tail humbug is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Black tail humbug edible?
The Black tail 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 Black tail humbug?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Black tail humbug is one of 12,519 species in the app.