Ocellate Damselfish

Ocellate Damselfish (Pomacentrus vaiuli)

The Ocellate Damselfish (Pomacentrus vaiuli), a member of the family Pomacentridae, is a small, vibrant fish commonly found in coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific region. Its name comes from the distinctive black spot, or ocellus, located on the dorsal fin, which acts as a deterrent to predators by mimicking an eye. This feature, combined with its bright blue or yellow body, makes the Ocellate Damselfish both a striking and effective survivor in its environment.

Ocellate Damselfish typically inhabit shallow reef areas and lagoons, where they thrive among coral structures. As a territorial species, they are known to be aggressive, especially when defending their nesting sites or food sources. They feed primarily on plankton and algae, contributing to the overall health of coral ecosystems by helping control algae overgrowth.

Though small in size, usually only reaching about 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length, Ocellate Damselfish play an essential role in the reef’s biodiversity. Their territorial behavior can impact the distribution of other species, and their interactions with algae and plankton help maintain a balanced environment. Their striking appearance and relatively easy care have also made them popular in the marine aquarium trade, though their aggressive tendencies mean they are best suited for tanks with other hardy, non-timid species.