Jordan’s Damselfish

🇯🇴 Jordan's damsel, scientifically known as Teixeirichthys undefinedi, is a fascinating species of ray-finned fish belonging to the Pomacentridae family, which includes both damselfishes and clownfishes. Notably, it is the sole species in its genus, Teixeirichthys. This fish exhibits a distinctive geographical distribution, inhabiting the 🇮🇳 Indian and western 🌊 Pacific Oceans. It has been spotted in diverse locations such as the 🌊 Red Sea, 🇲🇿 Mozambique Channel, 🇸🇨 Seychelles, 🇹🇼 Taiwan, 🇭🇰 Hong Kong, 🇨🇳 China, and 🇯🇵 Japan. Additionally, it is noted to thrive in environments ranging from sea grass beds to sandy substrates.

One of the most captivating aspects of 🇯🇴 Jordan's damsel is its social behavior. Frequently, these fish are observed forming large mid-water groups, which can number in the hundreds. Their habitat extends from shallow coastal waters to depths of about 4 to 20 meters (13 to 66 feet). In particular regions, like the Gulf of Aqaba, they have been seen using small rocky areas and debris to create nesting sites.

The biology of this species offers further insight into its life cycle. 🇯🇴 Jordan’s damsel is a tropical, reef-associated species that does not migrate. It can grow up to a maximum length of 14 centimeters. Typical adult habitats include seagrass beds and sandy trawling grounds. Reproduction in these fish is oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. During the breeding season, the fish engage in distinct pairing, with males playing a crucial role in the protection and aeration of the demersal eggs, which stick to the substrate.

The naming of the species reflects a tribute to two notable figures. The genus name, Teixeirichthys, honors Gabriel M. Teixeira, the Governor-General of 🇲🇿 Mozambique from 1897 to 1973, who supported scientific studies of the region's fish fauna. The specific and common name pay homage to the American ichthyologist David Starr 🇯🇴 Jordan. His contributions to ichthyology included providing valuable specimen collections, among which Teixeirichthys undefinedi was first identified.

🇯🇴 Jordan's damsel thus represents a unique blend of intriguing biological features, social behaviors, and a widespread yet disjunct distribution. Its presence across notable tropical regions and association with coral reefs highlight its importance in marine ecosystems within its geographic range.