Starcki Damsel

 Quick Care Facts

• Care Level: Easy   • Temperament: Semi-aggressive   • Maximum Size: 3"
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons   • Water Conditions: 72-79° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Diet: Omnivore   • Origin: Australia, Java, Western Pacific
• Family: Pomacentridae   • Species: Damselfish   • Aquarium Type: Reef Compatible

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Starcki Damselfish originate from the coral reefs of the Western Pacific, where they are typically found living either singularly or in small groups. The Starcki Damsel will generally stake out a portion of the reef as their territory and patrol it against other Damselfish or similarly sized/shaped fish species. They do very well within the aquarium hobby, as they are an excellent addition to either reef or FOWLR aquariums.

Starcki Damsels provide more than just good looks for the reef aquarium, as they are good for eating algae and will not harm corals or invertebrates. They are also an excellent species for beginning marine aquarium hobbyists since they can tolerate a wide range of aquarium conditions and are easy to feed. Starcki Damselfish's only aquarium requirement is the presence of rocky caves and crevices in which to hide when threatened and to use as their territory within the aquarium. Live rock is the best choice to provide territory for the Starcki Damsel as it will provide them both with territory and as a supplemental food source via the algae growing on the rock.

The Starcki Damsel is a good addition to both reef and fish-only aquariums 30 gallons or larger or nano reef aquariums 20 gallons or larger. They should generally be kept as the only Damselfish in most aquariums, with the exception being that very large aquariums with plenty of live rock being able to house multiple specimens. Like most Damselfish, the Starcki Damsel is territorial and will need enough space (territory) within the aquarium to claim as it's own to eliminate or lesson aggression towards other similarly sized tank mates.

Larger aquariums can support multiple or small groups of Damselfish, as it can provide enough territory. Aquariums with lot's of live rock are best suited for the Starcki Damsel, as this will provide them with an abundance of rocky caves and crevices in which to swim. This will also lessen their aggressiveness since there will be less pressure to secure territory on the reef when there is an abundance of suitable spots on the reef.

The Starcki Damsel is generally considered a moderately aggressive Damselfish species, with a temperament similar to the Yellowtail Blue Damsel. They do not have any special lighting or filtration requirements, but will enjoy plenty of water movement which will simulate their natural coral reef habitat.

Starcki Damselfish feed primarily on plankton and algae in their natural coral reef environment. In the aquarium environment they will readily accept a wide variety of vegetable based and meaty commercial foods. It is important to provide them with both meaty and vegetable based foods along with marine algae in order to provide them all the vitamins and minerals that they need to maintain a healthy immune system.

They will do well with a diet based on a variety of live, frozen, freeze-dried, and vitamin enriched foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, cyclop-eeze, formula I & II and other prepared foods such as Spirulina-based, mini carnivore and herbivore pellets and flake foods.