Hybridization is a common biological process best defined as the interbreeding of individuals from two distinct populations (or species), distinguishable on the basis of heritable characters. Throughout the dawn of time, since humans started developing a keen interest in the natural world, hybrids [...]
“Yellowtail Damselfish” C. parasema Range: Philippines north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to Sabah, Java Sea, Flores Etymology: Greek “streamer”, allegedly in reference to the pale tail Size: 5cm Aquarium Rarity: Abundant ID: Entirely blue, except for a bright yellow caudal fin and [...]
“Springer’s Damselfish” C. springeri Range: Indonesia, though likely absent from the Java Sea and Sumatra. Etymology: After ichthyologist Dr. Victor Springer of the Smithsonian Size: 5cm Aquarium Rarity: Common ID: Mostly blue, with little black exposed. Notes: Very similar to the Melanesian [...]
Damselfishes are usually thought of as a cheap staple of the aquarium trade, more often treated as “starter fish” than desirable species in their own right. But such prejudices belie the fascinating evolutionary story these fishes have to tell. One group in particular—the Chrysiptera [...]