Threespot Damselfish

Threespot Damselfish
Name: Threespot Damselfish
Scientific Name: Stegastes planifrons
Family: Damselfishes
Taxonomic: Pomacentridae
ID Group: Small Oval Fishes
Size: 3 - 4 in.
Depth Range: On the reef (10 – 60 ft.)
Sightings: Seen many times

The Threespot Damselfish has a brownish-gray body with dark spots located at the base of its pectoral fin and tail. An arc of yellow is visible just above each eye. Juveniles are bright yellow and have a third large black spot on the upper back and dorsal fin, which becomes less distinct as they mature.

This Damselfish is very territorial and fiercely guards its home, often chasing away or nipping at intruders that get too close. It maintains small algae gardens within its territory by weeding out unwanted algae. This garden serves as a primary food source. During reproduction, the female lays her eggs in the male's garden, and the male then guards and fans the eggs with his fins to provide them with oxygen until they hatch.