Pomacentrus moluccensis

6cm
1-60m
665 sites
Pomacentridae
Imagine gliding along a vibrant coral reef, and a flash of sunshine yellow catches your eye – that's likely the Lemon Damsel (Pomacentrus moluccensis)! These petite, bright fish are a common sight across the Great Barrier Reef and the South Pacific, adding a splash of colour to the underwater landscape. Typically around 6cm, but sometimes growing to 9cm, they're small but unmissable, darting amongst the coral branches. You'll usually find them in shallow waters, anywhere from 1 to 60 meters deep, where they happily graze on algae. While they might not be the biggest or most dramatic fish on the reef, their cheerful colour and lively behaviour make them a delightful encounter for any diver or snorkeller.
The Lemon Damsel is easily identified by its bright lemon-yellow body, making it stand out against the reef backdrop. Its small size (typically around 6cm) is another key feature. It has a generally oval shape with a slightly pointed snout. Juveniles may have a small black spot on the dorsal fin, which usually fades as they mature.
Pink Skunk Anemonefish
377 sites