
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dascyllus trimaculatus
A black damselfish with three white spots on the forehead and flanks. Juveniles live with sea anemones. The spots fade with growth and adults reach 14 cm and become very aggressive, so choose tank mates carefully.
The Domino Damselfish (Dascyllus trimaculatus) is widespread across the Indo-Pacific from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Line and Pitcairn Islands, north to southern Japan and south to Sydney, but absent from Hawaii and the Marquesas. It lives in small to large aggregations on coral and rocky reefs at 0-55 m, and juveniles are commensal with large sea anemones, sea urchins or small coral heads. Juveniles are black with three white spots on the forehead and upper flanks, the source of both the Japanese and English names. With growth the forehead spot disappears, the flank spots shrink and the color varies by region and condition. Maximum length is 14 cm. It feeds on algae, copepods and other planktonic crustaceans, spawns in pairs on the substrate and the male guards the eggs. Very hardy and tolerant of water quality swings, it is considered a beginner's fish, but the cute juvenile grows into a large, aggressive adult. It suits a tank of 114 L or more with large, robust tank mates to grow up alongside. It will take up residence in a carpet anemone (Stichodactyla) if one is present. It does not bother corals or invertebrates.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Domino Damselfish lives 3-6 years.
The Domino Damselfish grows to Up to 14cm.
The ideal temperature for the Domino Damselfish is 22〜26℃.
Origin
Indo-Pacific: Red Sea and East Africa to the Line and Pitcairn Islands, north to southern Japan, south to Sydney
Sources: LiveAquaria / FishBase
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lifespan
3-6 years
Size
Up to 14cm
Temperature
22〜26℃
Pellets, flakes, frozen food (omnivore)
The juvenile spots fade and adults become large and aggressive. Starting it with small peaceful fish causes problems later.
114 L (30 gallons) or larger; allow room for a 14 cm adult.
22-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025. Tolerant of water quality swings.
Omnivore with a good appetite. Pellets, frozen and algae-based foods once or twice daily.
Suits large, robust tank mates; avoid small peaceful fish. Will host in carpet anemones. Safe with corals and invertebrates.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Domino Damselfish is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Domino Damselfish is 3-6 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Domino Damselfish typically reaches Up to 14cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Domino Damselfish feeds on: Pellets, flakes, frozen food (omnivore). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Domino Damselfish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026