Pomacentrus smithi Fowler & Bean, 1928
Smith's damsel
photo by Cook, D.C.

Family:  Pomacentridae (Damselfishes), subfamily: Pomacentrinae
Max. size:  7 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 2 - 14 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Western Central Pacific: Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and New Hebrides.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 13-13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-13; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 13-14. Description: Series of small blue spots along scale rows, especially anteriorly over the back (Ref. 48636). Body depth 2.1-2.2 in SL (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Adults inhabit live coral patches often in silty areas of lagoons and inshore reefs. They occur in small to large groups. Feed in midwater above live coral heads (Ref. 7247). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205). Diurnal species (Ref. 52881).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 04 February 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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