Fijian Panda Damselfish

Care

In the wild, Fijian Panda Damselfish may be found in small groups within lagoons and inshore reefs, usually amongst corals and rocky outcrops, feeding mainly on zooplankton in the water column. At first glance, Amblypomacentrus tricinctus bears a remarkable similarity to the deeper-bodied Humbug damsels (Dascyllus sp.) - cheaper and much more aggressive damselfishes that are best avoided. This species is a much better option for the home aquarium. Although these pretty fish are considered much less aggressive than many close relatives, they are still reasonably assertive and should not be kept alongside really docile species such as cardinalfish and firefish. It is advisable to keep either a single specimen, a known male-female pair, or a large sized odd-numbered shoal (9+) introduced simultaneously as juveniles into a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places amongst the rockwork. 

Feeding

Offer a varied diet consisting of small frozen foods such as Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp and finely chopped krill, plus marine flake food and herbivore rations. Feed small amounts 3 times per day.

Breeding

This species has not been bred in the home aquarium, but they are known to form distinct pairs in the wild when spawning. Male damselfish typically establish a territory and prepare surfaces of rubble or coral for females to deposit their adhesive, demersal eggs. Once the eggs are laid the male will quickly fertilize them and aggressively defend them from any intruders. He will also aerate the eggs until they hatch.