Yellow-side Damselfish

Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus, commonly referred to as the yellow damselfish or yellow-sided damselfish, is a member of the Pomacentridae family. This family is renowned for its diversity and abundance, particularly within coral reef ecosystems, and includes both damselfish and clownfish. First documented in 1980 by ichthyologists Allen and Randall, the yellow damselfish is a notable inhabitant of the vibrant underwater landscapes of the western 🌊 Indian Ocean. These fish primarily reside in the waters of countries such as 🇩🇯 Djibouti, 🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇪🇷 Eritrea, 🇮🇱 Israel, 🇯🇴 Jordan, 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia, 🇸🇴 Somalia, 🇸🇩 Sudan, and 🇾🇪 Yemen.

Yellow damselfish are typically found at depths ranging from 12 to 20 meters (39 to 66 feet), favoring the warm waters of coastal fringing reefs and reef slopes. Distinctively small, they can reach a maximum length of 10 cm. Their striking appearance, characterized by a pearly white body with a yellowish hue towards the back half, is mirrored in their Latin name "flavilatus," which translates to "with yellow sides." The fish is further marked by its anatomy, featuring thirteen dorsal spines and two anal spines, as well as flexible rays on both its dorsal and anal fins.

In terms of behavior, Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus is non-migratory, tending to stay within its home territory. Many species within the Pomacentridae family exhibit intense territoriality, often defending territories known as "algal gardens." These gardens are maintained by the fish and are crucial for their survival and reproduction. Yellow damselfish are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs that are fertilized and hatch externally. During breeding, these fish form distinct pairs, and their eggs adhere to the substrate on the ocean floor. Males take on the role of guarding and aerating the eggs, ensuring their successful development.

Moreover, yellow damselfish predominantly feed on zooplankton, contributing to their simple dietary needs. Despite environmental challenges faced by many marine species, Amblyglyphidodon flavilatus has a stable population and is currently categorized as "least concern" by conservation authorities. This status reflects a relatively healthy balance in their native habitats, allowing them to continue thriving in the richly diverse underwater ecosystems of the 🌊 Indian Ocean.