Fin's Fish Guide
The Blackvent damsel (Dischistodus melanotus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The blackvent damsel is a reef fish from the western Pacific, ranging from southern Japan and Taiwan to Indonesia, the Great Barrier Reef and Vanuatu. It grows to about 16 cm and has a white body with a dark brown upper head, pale opercle spots and a large black belly patch reaching the anus; juveniles have an eyespot on the dorsal-fin base. It lives on coastal and patch reefs with sand and rubble between 1 and 12 metres depth and fiercely defends its algal patch. The male guards the eggs that adhere to the bottom. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Blackvent damsel?
The Blackvent damsel has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Large black belly blotch; fiercely defends its algal patch
Where does the Blackvent damsel live?
The Blackvent damsel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific
How big does the Blackvent damsel get?
The Blackvent damsel grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Blackvent damsel dangerous to humans?
No, the Blackvent damsel 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 Blackvent damsel edible?
The Blackvent damsel is not usually eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Blackvent damsel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackvent 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 Dischistodus
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Blackvent damsel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Blackvent damsel is one of 12,519 species in the app.