Description

The Allen’s Damselfish is named after Dr. Gerald Allen, the Icthyologist who is recognized as the world’s authority on Damselfishes. This slender fish is neon blue with a blending of yellow near the bottom of the body down into the anal fin. The Neon Damselfish is a brightly colored beauty that can make a dramatic addition to many saltwater aquariums.

The Allen’s Damselfish or Neon Damselfish species is nearly ubiquitous on both protected and exposed reefs in moderately clear water from below the surge zone to at least 30 meters. It is a solitary inhabitant of areas of mixed coral and rock or rubble and feeds on filamentous algae, small invertebrates, zooplankton and fishes. Its coloration is variable, ranging from dark blue to tan. This brilliant species is a moderately common inhabitant of isolated coral heads and patches of rubble on sandy lagoon and channel floors from 1.5 to at least 12 meters. It appears in small groups, and generally remains within 1 meter of shelter.