Quick Stats:

• Care Leve

l: Easy

• Temperament: Aggressive
• Diet: Omnivore
• Reef Safe: No
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.020-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide: 3 Stripe Damsel (Dascyllus aruanus)

The 3 Stripe Damsel, or Dascyllus aruanus, is a popular saltwater fish species for aquarium enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide will cover various aspects of keeping and caring for this species in a saltwater aquarium.

Habitat

The 3 Stripe Damsel is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the western Pacific Ocean. They are commonly found near coral reefs, rocky areas, and lagoons.

Reef Safe

The 3 Stripe Damsel is not considered reef safe. They may nip at corals and other invertebrates, potentially causing damage to the reef ecosystem within the aquarium.

Size

Adult 3 Stripe Damsels can reach a maximum size of around 3 inches.

Temperament

These damsels are known for their aggressive behavior. They can be territorial and aggressive towards other fish in the tank, especially smaller or more passive species.

Sexual Dimorphism

There is no significant visual difference between males and females of the species.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the 3 Stripe Damsel is around 5 to 8 years when provided with proper care and a suitable environment.

Diet in Aquariums

3 Stripe Damsels are omnivores and have a varied diet. In aquariums they can be fed a combination of high-quality flake or pellet food, frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and other small meaty foods. Providing a balanced diet to ensure their overall health and vitality is essential.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for 3 Stripe Damsels, it is recommended to provide plenty of hiding spots and caves using live rock or artificial structures. This will help create territories and reduce aggression among the fish.

Captive Bred Availability

The 3 Stripe Damsel is commonly available as captive-bred specimens in the aquarium trade. Captive-bred fish tend to be hardier and more adaptable to aquarium conditions compared to wild-caught specimens.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

Due to their aggressive nature, 3 Stripe Damsels are best kept in a species-only tank or with other aggressive fish species that can hold their own. They are unsuitable for reef tanks as they may nip at corals and other invertebrates. However, if kept with compatible tankmates, they can thrive in a community setup.

Five specific tankmates that can be considered for a 3 Stripe Damsel tank are:

1. Yellowtail Damsel (Chrysiptera parasema) – Similar size and aggression level, can coexist peacefully.
2. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) – Clownfish are known for their ability to establish territories and can coexist with 3 Stripe Damsels.
3. Firefish Goby (Nemateleotris magnifica) – Peaceful and can occupy different areas of the tank, reducing potential conflicts.
4. Blue Green Chromis (Chromis viridis) – Similar size and schooling behavior can create a visually appealing display.
5. Orange Spotted Goby (Amblyeleotris guttata) – Bottom-dwelling fish that can occupy a different niche in the tank, reducing competition.

Other Common Names

The 3 Stripe Damsel is also commonly known as the Humbug Dascyllus or Three Stripe Damselfish.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com

Reefs4Less.com is a reputable online retailer specializing in saltwater aquarium supplies and livestock. They offer a wide selection of high-quality fish, corals, and other marine life. Their commitment to customer satisfaction, excellent packaging, and reliable shipping makes them a trusted choice for saltwater aquarium enthusiasts.

Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: Are 3 Stripe Damsels suitable for beginners?

A: 3 Stripe Damsels are suitable for beginners due to their hardiness and ease of care.

Q: Can 3 Stripe Damsels be kept in a reef tank?

A: It is not recommended to keep 3 Stripe Damsels in a reef tank as they may nip at corals and other invertebrates.

Q: How often should I feed my 3 Stripe Damsel?

A: It is recommended to feed 3 Stripe Damsels small amounts of food multiple times a day. Monitor their feeding behavior and adjust accordingly.

Q: Can 3 Stripe Damsels be kept in pairs?

A: While it is possible to keep a pair of 3 Stripe Damsels, it can increase aggression and territorial behavior. It is generally recommended to keep them singly or in small groups.

Q: Do 3 Stripe Damsels require a specific lighting setup in the aquarium?

A: No, 3 Stripe Damsels do not have specific lighting requirements. They can adapt to a wide range of lighting conditions.