Fin's Fish Guide
The Damsel fish (Chromis chromis) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Mediterranean Sea and eastern Atlantic from Portugal to Angola, especially around islands such as the Azores and the Canary Islands.
Description
The Mediterranean damselfish is a small reef fish of the family Pomacentridae reaching about 25 cm but usually around 13 cm. Adults are dark brown to black, while juveniles stand out with a brilliant cobalt-blue colour. The species forms loose shoals in midwater above rocky reefs and seagrass meadows in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic, usually between 2 and 40 m. It feeds on small plankton and benthic animals. In summer it spawns; the males build a nest on rock or sand and guard the eggs, which are attached by adhesive filaments, until they hatch.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Damsel fish?
The Damsel fish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Small, dark brown reef fish; juveniles are brilliant cobalt blue. Forms shoals above rocks and seagrass.
Where does the Damsel fish live?
The Damsel fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Mediterranean Sea and eastern Atlantic from Portugal to Angola, especially around islands such as the Azores and the Canary Islands.
How big does the Damsel fish get?
The Damsel fish grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 13 cm.
Is the Damsel fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Damsel fish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Damsel fish edible?
The Damsel fish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Damsel fish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chromis
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Damsel fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Damsel fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.