Staghorn Damsel

The Staghorn Damsel (Amblyglyphidodon curacao) is a vibrant reef resident, adding a splash of colour to coral gardens across the Indo-Pacific. Typically reaching around 7cm, but occasionally growing up to 11cm, these damsels are most commonly spotted in the Great Barrier Reef, Southeast Asia, and the South Pacific. Divers and snorkellers exploring depths of 1 to 40 meters will find them closely associated with reef structures, particularly branching corals. While not the rarest fish in the sea, their charming presence and active behaviour contribute to the overall vibrancy of the reef ecosystem. Keep an eye out for them darting amongst the staghorn coral, always on the lookout for a tasty snack. As carnivores, Staghorn Damsels feed on small invertebrates and zooplankton. These colourful reef dwellers are often seen flitting amongst the coral branches, creating a lively underwater spectacle. While their conservation status is currently unevaluated (NE), observing and appreciating them during your dives helps raise awareness about the importance of coral reef conservation. They are a common but welcome sight for divers and snorkellers, earning them a diver appeal score of 3/5.