ANIMAL SPECIES:Australian Damsel, Pomacentrus australis (Allen & Robertson, 1973)
Adult Australian Damsels can be recognised by their colouration. The juveniles are vivid blue.
Identification
Adult Australian Damsels are blue to bluish-grey on the upper sides of the body and often paler below. The centre of each scale is blue. Juveniles are vivid blue.
Size range
The species grows to 10 cm in length.Similar Species
The Australian Damsel looks similar to the Blue Damsel. The two species can be distinguished by the yellow anal and caudal fins of the Blue Damsel.Distribution
The species occurs throughout the Indo-West Pacific.
In Australia it is known from the central coast and reefs of Queensland to the southern coast of New South Wales.
Distribution by collection data
Biomaps map of Australian Damsel specimens in the Australian Museum collection.
Habitat
It occurs on shallow coral and rocky reefs as well as muddy areas.
Classification
- Species:
- australis
- Genus:
- Pomacentrus
- Family:
- Pomacentridae
- Class:
- Actinopterygii
- Subphylum:
- Vertebrata
- Phylum:
- Chordata
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
References
- Allen, G.R. 1991. Damselfishes of the World. Mergus. Pp.271.
- Hutchins, B. & R. Swainston. 1986. Sea Fishes of Southern Australia. Complete Field Guide for Anglers and Divers. Swainston Publishing. Pp. 180.
- Kuiter, R.H. 1996. Guide to Sea Fishes of Australia. New Holland. Pp. 433.
- Kuiter, R.H. 2000. Coastal Fishes of South-eastern Australia. Gary Allen. Pp. 437.
- Randall, J.E., Allen, G.R. & R.C. Steene. 1997. Fishes of the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea. Crawford House Press. Pp. 557.
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An Australian Damsel at South West Rocks View full size
Dave Harasti
© Dave Harasti
Lateral view of an Australian Damsel View full size
Dave Harasti
© Dave Harasti
An Australian Damsel at North West Solitary Island View full size
Ian Shaw
© Ian Shaw
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