Yellowtail Dascyllus (Dascyllus punctatus)

Fish in the family Pomacentridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.

Yellowtail Dascyllus

Quick facts

Scientific nameDascyllus punctatus
FamilyPomacentridae
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyReef Safe with Caution
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size3.5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.4 Salinity: 1.02-1.026
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

A small damselfish with a dark gray to charcoal body and distinctive white spots scattered across the head and body. The tail is bright yellow, providing the species' common name and key identifying feature.

Diet and feeding

Feed a varied diet of high-quality marine flake, small pellets, and frozen foods such as mysis shrimp and copepods. Offer food 2–3 times daily in small portions. Naturally grazes on small crustaceans and algae in the reef.

Difficulty and care for the Yellowtail Dascyllus

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea and East Africa through the Indian Ocean to the western and central Pacific Ocean.

Log Yellowtail Dascyllus in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Yellowtail Dascyllus alongside everything else in your reef.