Fin's Fish Guide
The Canary damsel (Abudefduf luridus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Eastern Atlantic around the Macaronesian islands (Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands) and along Northwest Africa.
Description
The Canary damsel is a sturdy reef fish of the family Pomacentridae (damselfishes) reaching about 15 cm. The deep, laterally compressed body is mostly dark brown to almost black, often with fine light-blue lines on the head; juveniles are scattered with bright blue spots. The species is endemic to the eastern Atlantic around the Macaronesian islands, such as the Azores, Madeira and the Canaries, and along north-western Africa, where it lives on shallow rocky shores. It forms small groups and, as an omnivore, grazes on algae and picks small zooplankton from the water. The male fiercely defends a territory and guards the eggs laid on the rock until they hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Canary damsel?
The Canary damsel is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Dark damselfish of the Macaronesian rocky shores; often with light blue striping on the head and juveniles with blue spots.
Where does the Canary damsel live?
The Canary damsel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic around the Macaronesian islands (Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands) and along Northwest Africa.
How big does the Canary damsel get?
The Canary damsel grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Canary damsel dangerous to humans?
No, the Canary damsel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Canary damsel edible?
The Canary damsel is not usually eaten.
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All data
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Appearance
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Behaviour & biology
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Status & sources
Same genus Abudefduf
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Canary damsel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Canary damsel is one of 12,519 species in the app.