Whitetailed damselfish

Tahitian names

‘Atoti

Interesting facts

This damselfish has three large black stripes that cross her body. We often see individuals of 2.5 inches lenght, but can size up to 4 inches. It is frequently encountered in shallow environments, both in the lagoon and  the outer slope. It finds refuge in the coral reefs Acropora type. A gregarious species, the size of the colony will depend essentially on the size of the coral that houses it. Fearful, they will take refuge inside the reef at the slightest warning. Its diet is varied: they eat algae as well as plankton. At the time of reproduction the male will invite the female for a dance to court her. This courtship usually takes place 3 feet above the nest.

sources & credits

P. Bacchet, T. Zysman, Y. Lefèvre, 2010. Guide des poissons de Tahiti et ses îles. Au vent des îles. 3e édition. http://doris.ffessm.fr/Especes/Dascyllus-aruanus-Demoiselle-a-trois-bandes-noires-1111