Microspathodon chrysurus (Cuvier, 1830)

Species Classification and Native Range

The yellowtail damselfish, Microspathodon chrysurus, is a damselfish species native to tropical regions including the Caribbean coast of Panama.

Habitat

Damselfish are abundant in coral reef habitats.

Conservation Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature categorizes this species as least concern.

Harvest and Threats

It is harvested on a small scale for both commercial fisheries and the aquarium trade, and it may face threats from invasive lionfish.

Age-Related Coloration Differences

Adult and young adult yellowtail damselfish show striking differences in body coloration.

Historical Taxonomic Misclassification

This difference was so large that researchers once considered adult and young individuals to be two separate species.

Coloration Details by Age

Adult yellowtail damselfish are brown with a yellow caudal fin, while young adults are violet with blue spots on their backs and transparent caudal fins.

Spawning Cycle Onset and Nest Preparation

The spawning cycle of this species begins at sunrise, and lasts roughly one hour after male damselfish prepare nests on dead coral surfaces.

Egg Characteristics

The species produces demersal eggs, which stick to the substrate.

Egg Guarding Behavior

Males guard and aerate these eggs after they are laid.

Incubation and Hatching Timeline

Hatching takes place on the morning of the sixth day of incubation.

Reproductive Peak Period

Reproductive activity reaches its peak during the lunar period between the full moon and new moon.

Lunar Cycle Tide Context

At this point in the lunar cycle, the combined gravitational pull of the sun and moon is very strong, creating spring tides.