PomacentridaePomacentridae

Pomacentridae, commonly known as damselfishes and clownfishes, are small, deep-bodied, and laterally compressed fishes. They typically measure 5 to 15 cm (2 to 6 in) in length, with some species growing up to 35 cm (14 in). Many display bright colours such as blue, yellow, or orange, often with contrasting patterns, while others are uniformly drab. The family name Pomacentridae derives from Greek, meaning "cover-spine," referring to a sharp opercular spine.

These fish inhabit diverse reef environments from shallow surge zones to deeper reef slopes, living from the surface down to 60 m (200 ft). Most feed on algae, small invertebrates, or zooplankton. They are highly territorial, defending small patches of reef, often exhibiting complex courtship rituals and biparental care of eggs laid on hard surfaces. Clownfishes (subfamily Amphiprioninae) are notable for their obligate symbiosis with sea anemones. They are among the most abundant fish encountered on 🌊 Red Sea reefs.