Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Diet: Omnivore
• Reef Safe: No
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
• Max Size: 3 inches
• Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F, Salinity: 1.020-1.025, pH: 8.1-8.4, Ammonia/Nitrite: 0, Nitrate: <30ppm

Comprehensive Guide: 3 Stripe Damsel (Dascyllus aruanus)

Habitat:

The 3 Stripe Damsel, also known as the Humbug Dascyllus, is found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs and lagoons. They prefer areas with plenty of hiding spots and coral formations.

Reef Safe:

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

Size:

The 3 Stripe Damsel can grow up to 3 inches long.

Temperament:

These damsels are known for their aggressive behavior, especially towards other fish. They establish territories and may become territorial towards tankmates.

Sexual Dimorphism:

This species has no visible differences between males and females.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the 3 Stripe Damsel is around 5-8 years with proper care.

Diet in Aquariums:

They are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods. Providing a balanced diet to ensure their health and vitality is important.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

Provide plenty of hiding spots and caves using live rock or artificial structures. This will help create territories and reduce aggression. Ensure there is enough open swimming space as well.

Captive Bred Availability:

The 3 Stripe Damsel is commonly available as captive-bred specimens, which are generally hardier and better suited for aquarium life than wild-caught individuals.

Compatibility with Tankmates:

Due to their aggressive nature, it is important to choose tankmates carefully. Here are 5 specific tankmates that can be good choices:

1. Clownfish: They can coexist with damsels as they are generally peaceful and can hold their own against the damsels’ aggression.
2. Gobies: Some goby species are known to be compatible with damsels. They occupy different areas of the tank, reducing the chances of aggression.
3. Firefish: Firefish are peaceful and can coexist with damsels, provided there is enough space and hiding spots.
4. Dottybacks: Certain dottyback species can tolerate damsels, but careful monitoring is necessary to ensure compatibility.
5. Wrasses: Some wrasses can be suitable tankmates for damsels, but it is essential to choose non-aggressive species.

Other Common Names:

The 3 Stripe Damsel may also be known by other common names such as Humbug Dascyllus, Three Stripe Damselfish, and Domino Damsel.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: Can the 3 Stripe Damsel be kept in a smaller tank?

A: While they can tolerate smaller tanks, providing a minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended to ensure ample swimming space and reduce aggression.

Q: Are 3 Stripe Damsels suitable for beginners?

A: They are considered suitable for beginners due to their hardiness and ease of care. However, their aggressive nature should be taken into consideration when choosing tankmates.

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

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

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

A: Feed them small amounts multiple times a day. Providing a varied diet consisting of flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods is better.

Q: Can 3 Stripe Damsels be kept in pairs?

A: While they may form pairs in the wild, keeping them in pairs in the aquarium is not advisable. They are territorial and may become aggressive towards each other.