Fin's Fish Guide
The Honey damselfish (Stegastes diencaeus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 13 cm.
Western Atlantic and Caribbean; coral and rocky reefs of sheltered lagoons.
Description
The longfin damselfish is a damselfish of the family Pomacentridae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 13 cm; juveniles are dark with bright blue lines and a yellow tinge, adults uniformly dark brown. It inhabits coral and rocky reefs of sheltered lagoons and inshore areas. It is a strongly territorial species that maintains a 'garden' of algae on the reef and fiercely defends it against intruders, even much larger fishes. As an omnivore it grazes mainly algae, supplemented with small invertebrates. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Honey damselfish?
The Honey damselfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Tends and fiercely defends a small algal 'garden' on the reef, even against much larger fishes.
Where does the Honey damselfish live?
The Honey damselfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; coral and rocky reefs of sheltered lagoons.
How big does the Honey damselfish get?
The Honey damselfish grows to a maximum of about 13 cm.
Is the Honey damselfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Honey damselfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Honey damselfish edible?
The Honey damselfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stegastes
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Honey damselfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Honey damselfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.