Fin's Fish Guide
The Crescent damsel (Neopomacentrus cyanomos) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 10 cm.
Description
The crescent damsel is a small reef fish of the family Pomacentridae, native to the Indo-West Pacific. The species reaches about 10 cm, has a dark brown-grey body with blue and yellow accents and a crescent-notched tail. It inhabits inshore and outer reefs, harbours and current-prone sites, where large schools feed on zooplankton just above the bottom. The species is diurnal and reproduces via adhesive demersal eggs guarded by the male. Notably it has recently established in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean, where it is regarded as invasive.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Crescent damsel?
The Crescent damsel has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Recently become invasive in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean; the male guards the sticky bottom eggs.
Where does the Crescent damsel live?
The Crescent damsel lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-West Pacific, on coastal and outer reefs.
How big does the Crescent damsel get?
The Crescent damsel grows to a maximum of about 10 cm. On average the species is around 7 cm.
Is the Crescent damsel dangerous to humans?
No, the Crescent damsel is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Crescent damsel edible?
The Crescent damsel is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
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Status & sources
Same genus Neopomacentrus
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Crescent damsel?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crescent damsel is one of 12,519 species in the app.