
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pomacentrus coelestis
A neon-blue damselfish with yellow on the belly, tail base and tail. It is common on rocky shores in southern Japan, and the amount of yellow varies between individuals.
The neon damselfish (Pomacentrus coelestis) ranges from Sri Lanka to the Line and Tuamotu islands, north to southern Japan and south to Lord Howe Island (FishBase), reaching 9 cm TL. It is bright neon blue with yellow on the belly, tail base and tail, the extent and intensity of the yellow varying with locality and individual. It lives near rubble on coastal rocky and coral reefs: juveniles school over soft corals, adults form small to large groups. It feeds on zooplankton and benthic algae. Eggs are laid in rock crevices and guarded by the male. Note that a different species, Neoglyphidodon oxyodon, is sold in Japan as "neon damsel", so do not rely on the trade name alone. It is easy to keep and readily takes prepared and frozen foods. It leaves corals alone and is reef-safe. Saltcorner recommends keeping a group of at least five to seven so aggression is spread out. In Japan it is a familiar beginner fish, also collected on local rocky shores.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Neon damselfish grows to Up to 9 cm TL (FishBase).
The ideal temperature for the Neon damselfish is 23〜28℃.
Origin
Eastern Indian Ocean to western Pacific (Sri Lanka to the Tuamotus, north to southern Japan)
Lifespan
Little data available
Size
Up to 9 cm TL (FishBase)
Sources: FishBase (Pomacentrus coelestis) / Saltcorner Fish Library (Bob Goemans)
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.
Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). Not designated as an Invasive Alien Species under Japanese law. It also occurs along the coasts of Japan (southern Japan, the Ryukyu Islands, etc.); collecting in Japan is subject to each prefecture's fisheries adjustment regulations. Never release aquarium animals into the sea.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Alien Species / FishBase
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Temperature
23〜28℃
Omnivore (zooplankton and algae)
23-28°C, specific gravity 1.020-1.026 (Saltcorner).
About 110 L (30 gallons) or more; about 190 L (50 gallons) for a group reduces chasing. Provide rockwork for cover.
In small numbers the dominant fish harasses the others, so keep five to seven or more, or just one. It may pester other damselfish.
Leaves corals alone; reef-safe.
Readily eats prepared foods, frozen brine shrimp and mysis, and spirulina-based foods, once or twice a day.
The trade name "neon damsel" often refers to a different species, Neoglyphidodon oxyodon. This species is identified by its blue body with yellow belly and tail.
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 Neon damselfish is 23〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Neon damselfish typically reaches Up to 9 cm TL (FishBase) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Neon damselfish feeds on: Omnivore (zooplankton and algae). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Neon damselfish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026