🐠 Domino Damsel (Dascyllus trimaculatus)
🐠Domino Damselfish (Dascyllus trimaculatus)
Marine Damselfish • Hardy Beginner Fish • Reef-Associated • Territorial
📋 The Domino Damselfish (Dascyllus trimaculatus) displays a bold jet-black body marked by three pale “domino” spots—one behind the eye, one mid-body, and a third near the dorsal base (fading with age). Juveniles are strikingly spotted; adults darken and lose contrast as they mature.
A hardy, reef-associated species from lagoons and reef flats across the Indo-Pacific, it adapts readily to aquarium life. It’s best in larger systems with rockwork and defined territories. While easy to keep, it can be territorial, especially toward small, peaceful fish—plan stocking accordingly.
Provide stable marine parameters, strong filtration, and mixed diet. With proper space and tankmate selection, the Domino Damselfish is a durable, long-lived marine staple.
💡 Highlights
✨ Hardy Starter Marine Fish: Excellent durability and adaptability
⚪ Iconic Domino Spots: Classic juvenile pattern; adults deepen in color
📏 Active & Bold: Confident swimmer that uses rockwork for territory
✅ Captive-Bred Availability: Reduced wild impact; acclimates quickly
🐠 Reef-Associated: Safe with corals; monitor aggression toward fish
🧾 A Quick Look at the Domino Damselfish
📛 Common Name: Domino Damselfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Dascyllus trimaculatus
👨👩👧 Family: Pomacentridae
🌍 Origin: Indo-Pacific
📏 Max Size: 14 cm (≈ 5.5″)
💧 pH Range: 8.1–8.4
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24–27 °C (≈ 75–81 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Easy
💖 Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial
🪸 Reef Safe: ✅ With caution
🏠 Min Tank Size: 200 L (≈ 53 US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: All levels
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 5–10 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore (planktonic foods & algae)
🐣 Reproduction: Egg layer; male guards nest

