White Ear Damselfish - Medium

The White Ear Damselfish gets its name from the white blotch which is located at the rear of its head. The white blotch is visible in juveniles and adults. However, the other colours go through a distinctive change. Juveniles are the most striking specimens. They are orange, with a covering of neon blue lines, spots, and rings. As they mature their appearance becomes duller, resulting in a yellowish-brown colour.

There is limited information about breeding in an aquarium environment. In the wild, White Eared Damsels are oviparous. Their eggs adhere to the substrate and are guarded and aerated by the male. Males and females form distinct pairs during breeding.

This species is native to Australia, around New South Wales and Tasmania. It is usually found around coastal reefs, between depths of 1-55 metres.

Tank Recommendations for your White Eared Damselfish.

A 6-inch (15cm) Damselfish needs a tank that is at least 189 litres in capacity.

Aquarium information about this species is rare. However, in general, Damselfish usually inhabit the lower region of the tank. This means they need plenty of swimming space in this area. There should also be a variety of places to hide, amongst rockwork or ornaments. This will help prevent aggression.

A sand substrate is preferable as it allows Damselfish to burrow into it at night. If there are algae in an aquarium Damselfish will consume it and help maintain clean water.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Damselfish can be quite aggressive and territorial. During the breeding season, White Eared Damsels have been known to nip divers.

It is possible to house Damselfish with other types of fish if the aquarium is sufficiently large.

Usually Compatible

Suitable companions for Damselfish include Angelfish, Blennies, Tangs, and Dottybacks.

Sometime Compatible

Caution is advised with Batfish, Cardinalfish, Chromis, Grunts, and Squirrelfish.

Rarely Compatible

Avoid Anglerfish/Frogfish, Eels, Groupers, Lionfish/Scorpionfish, Sharks and Rays. White Ear Damselfish are too aggressive for Seahorses and Pipefish.

Feeding your White Ear Damselfish

The White Ear Damselfish is omnivorous. It will consume a variety of plant and animal food, as well as food flakes. Suitable foods include brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, squid, crustaceans, plankton, and algae. It should be fed a small amount once or twice per day.