Neoglyphidodon carlsoni

Lore & Background

Neoglyphidodon carlsoni is found in the western and central Pacific Ocean, ranging from the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to Fiji and Tonga. Adults inhabit fringing coral reefs at depths of 1 to 5 metres. The species is black in color, and unlike most species in the genus Neoglyphidodon, the coloration of adults and juveniles is similar.

This fish is omnivorous and is associated with corals in a coral reef. Females lay their eggs in the substrate or rubble, and the male then guards and aerates them. The specific name honors the aquarist and ichthyologist Bruce Carlson, who collected the type and made detailed notes on its habitat, and contributed many records of new species of damselfish for Fiji.

Reader's Guide

Neoglyphidodon carlsoni is a species of damselfish that occurs in the western and central Pacific Ocean, from the Great Barrier Reef to Fiji and Tonga. Adults reach a maximum length of 10 centimetres and are found in fringing coral reefs at depths of 1 to 5 metres. The fish is black in color, with adults and juveniles sharing similar coloration, a trait that distinguishes it from most other Neoglyphidodon species. It has 13 dorsal spines, 13 to 15 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 12 to 14 anal soft rays. The species is omnivorous and is associated with corals. Breeding involves females laying eggs in the substrate or rubble, after which the male guards and aerates them. Neoglyphidodon carlsoni is occasionally found in the aquarium trade. The species was named in honor of Bruce Carlson, an aquarist and ichthyologist who collected the type specimen and provided detailed habitat notes, as well as contributing many records of new damselfish species from Fiji.

Did You Know?

• Adults grow up to a maximum length of 10 centimetres (3.9 in).
• This fish is black in color, with similar coloration in adults and juveniles.
• It is found at depths of 1 to 5 metres (3.3 to 16.4 ft).