Description

Scientific Name: Chrysiptera starcki

Common Names: Starck’s Damselfish, Starck’s Demo, Blue Devil Damselfish

Maximum Length: 3.5 inches (9 cm)

Minimum Aquarium Size: 30 gallons (113 liters)

Foods and Feeding Habits: Omnivorous; feeds on zooplankton, small crustaceans, and algae in the wild. In aquariums, offer a varied diet of high-quality flake foods, pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, or brine shrimp. Feed 1-2 times daily in small amounts to maintain water quality.

Reef Safety: Reef-safe with caution; generally does not harm corals or invertebrates but may nip at small, delicate shrimp or clams in rare cases.

Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks or when kept singly. Best housed with other semi-aggressive or robust fish. Keeping in pairs or small groups may reduce aggression if introduced simultaneously.

Description: Meet the Starki Damselfish, the aquarium showstopper that’s got hobbyists hooked! Aquarists can’t get enough of its bold personality as it loves darting through live rock hideouts or weaving between corals. Don’t let its small size fool you; this Starck’s Damselfish has enough charisma to rival the biggest tank residents. Pair it with a setup that’s got plenty of nooks for exploring and a few robust tankmates to match its spunk, and you’ve got a recipe for an aquarium that pops. A varied diet of flakes or frozen treats keeps it vibrant, and a decent-sized tank (30 gallons or more) gives it room to shine. It’s no wonder this fish is a favorite for those who want a splash of color and a whole lot of attitude!

Fun Facts

• Chrysiptera starcki sports a vibrant blue body with a bright yellow tail, making it a stunning centerpiece in reef tanks.
• Named after ichthyologist Walter A. Starck II, this fish is a favorite among aquarists for its bold personality.
• In the wild, they often dart between branching corals, using them as both shelter and a hunting ground for tiny prey.