Blue Velvet Damsel

Species: Neoglyphidodon oxyodon

About Blue Velvet Damsel

Juveniles overall black with scale centers bluish; white blotch on forehead and upper sides; all fins black except the transparent pectoral and outer portion of soft dorsal rays. Geographic and behavioral color of adults variable; no spot on forehead; spot on upper sides very reduced; head and fins normally black; scales with black margins. Margins of preorbital, suborbital and preoperculum finely serrated.

Inhabits coral and rocky reefs, juveniles often commensal with large sea anemones, sea urchins, or small coral heads (Ref. 4391, 48636). Occurs in small to large aggregations. Stomach contents include algae, copepods, and other planktonic crustaceans.

Ref: Allen, G.R.. 1991. (Ref. 7247)