Blue Saphire Damsel

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About Blue Sapphire Damsel

The Blue Sapphire Damsel is a brilliant marine fish recognised for its intense sapphire-blue colouration and compact, streamlined body. Its vivid colour makes it an eye-catching addition to both reef and fish-only marine aquariums.

This species is relatively hardy and adapts well to aquarium life, making it a popular choice for newer marine aquarists. Like many damselfish, however, it can become territorial and aggressive, particularly in smaller aquariums or when defending a preferred area of rockwork.

Provide plenty of live rock, caves and hiding spaces to help establish territories. It is generally reef safe with corals, although care should be taken when choosing tank mates.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Chrysiptera parasema
Common Name: Blue Sapphire Damsel / Sapphire Damsel
Family: Pomacentridae
Type: Marine Fish / Damselfish
Adult Size: Approximately 7–8 cm
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Territorial
Care Level: Easy
Minimum Aquarium: 75 L+
Temperature: Approximately 24–28°C
pH: Approximately 8.1–8.4
Salinity: Approximately 1.023–1.026 SG
Diet: Omnivore
Tank Level: All Levels
Reef Safe: Yes
Suitable For: Marine Community and Reef Aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Blue Sapphire Damsels reef safe?

Yes. They are generally reef safe with corals and are unlikely to cause problems with healthy coral colonies.

Are Blue Sapphire Damsels aggressive?

They can be territorial, particularly once established. Their aggression can be reduced by providing plenty of rockwork and suitable space.

How big do Blue Sapphire Damsels get?

They typically reach around 7–8 cm as adults.

What do Blue Sapphire Damsels eat?

They are omnivores and readily accept marine flakes, pellets, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp and other appropriately sized frozen foods.

Can Blue Sapphire Damsels be kept with other damsels?

It can be challenging. Damselfish may become territorial towards other damsels, especially in smaller aquariums. Careful stocking and plenty of rockwork are recommended.

Do Blue Sapphire Damsels need live rock?

Live rock or suitable artificial rockwork provides territory, shelter and hiding places and is highly beneficial.

Common Mistakes

Adding them to a small aquarium with passive fish
Their territorial behaviour can become problematic in confined spaces.

Providing too little rockwork
Caves and crevices help establish territories and reduce constant interaction between fish.

Adding multiple damsels without planning territories
Competition can lead to persistent aggression.

Keeping them with extremely timid tank mates
Peaceful but timid species may become stressed by an established damsel defending its territory.

Overfeeding
Offer appropriately sized portions and maintain good filtration and water quality.