Fin's Fish Guide
The Cocoa damselfish (Stegastes variabilis) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 13 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on coral and rocky reefs of shallow water.
Description
The cocoa damselfish is a stocky, laterally compressed reef fish of the family Pomacentridae (damselfishes) reaching about 13 cm. Adults have a brown back and a yellow belly and flank; juveniles are more colourful, with blue spots on head and back and a dark eyespot on the dorsal fin. The species lives on coral and rock reefs of shallow water in the western Atlantic and the Caribbean. It is strongly territorial and farms and fiercely defends its own 'garden' of filamentous algae, on which it feeds together with small invertebrates; it even chases off larger intruders. The male guards the eggs attached to the reef. Through this behaviour it influences the reef's growth.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Cocoa damselfish?
The Cocoa damselfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Stocky damselfish with a brown back and yellow belly; juveniles have blue spots and a dark eyespot on the dorsal fin.
Where does the Cocoa damselfish live?
The Cocoa damselfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean, on coral and rocky reefs of shallow water.
How big does the Cocoa damselfish get?
The Cocoa damselfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Cocoa damselfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Cocoa damselfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Cocoa damselfish edible?
The Cocoa damselfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Stegastes
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Cocoa damselfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Cocoa damselfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.