Rolland's Damsel

Rolland's damsel is a small Chrysiptera species whose head and upper front part of the body are dark blackish-blue, while the rear half and belly are white or cream. The dark area has thin blue lines, and the pelvic fins are long and white. Juveniles may have a small black spot on the dorsal fin; the color pattern varies from region to region, and some individuals have a yellowish snout. It is hardy and tolerates small fluctuations in water parameters. Genetic studies suggest that more than one species may be hiding under this name.

• At least 75 liters for a single specimen.
• Salinity specific gravity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–27°C.
• Reef-safe: it leaves corals and invertebrates alone.
• Plenty of hiding places among rocks and corals; in the wild it lives among coral and rubble.

Omnivorous; in the wild it eats mainly zooplankton. It readily accepts granules and flakes; vary its diet with frozen mysis, brine shrimp and foods containing algae. Feed twice a day.

It is mild-mannered among damselfish, but as it ages it defends its own corner more resolutely. It is harshest towards damselfish of similar size that resemble it.

Good companions: Clownfish, gobies, blennies, cardinalfish, dwarf angelfish, ornamental shrimp.

Avoid: Aggressive damselfish, dottybacks, hawkfish and predators whose mouths it fits into; shy species in a very small aquarium.