Neon velvet damsel is one of the popular damsel. Bright colors and hardy nature is their key trait. Neon velvet damsel is also having other popular names such as Javanese damsel, Blue velvet damsel, Blue banded damsel and many more. They are extremely beautiful especially when they are young. They have neon colored blue horizontal stripes across the face. They also have yellowish white vertical bar which divides them in half. However when they grow up these markings fade away leaving blueish color as whole. They are relatively cheap saltwater fish which is capable of adapting wide range of water parameters. Neon velvet damsell are quite aggressive and their aggressive nature increases when they grow up. They form their territories and defend them at all cost.
Feeding
Feeding them is a easy job, they will happily eat flakes, pellets, shrimps or any other food. Give them vitamin and protein enriched food which will help them in developing colors. Mix the diet given to them so they do not lack in specific nutrient which is very important for their survival. Give them small amount of food several time a day.
Fish Tank Set Up and Tank Mates
Neon velvet damsel are middle sized fishes, they can grow up to 6 inches of size under good care. Minimum of 25 gallons size fish tank will be sufficient to contain an adult. Proper care must be taken in terms of water standards otherwise fish may easily suffer from diseases. Maintain the pH level of fish tank about 8.2 with perfect salinity. The temperature of fish tank must be in between 21 - 25 degrees Celsius. Neon velvet damsel are not suited for community fish tank due to their aggression and territorial nature. Fishes of similar temperament can be housed together with them under good care and supervision. You can opt for puffer, large angelfish, surgeon fish, tangs and butterflies. The tank mates should not be very large as compared to it otherwise they will treat neon velvet as a snack.The fish tank containing them should have excellent level of oxygen with lots of hiding spots.
Care : Easy
Size : 6 inches
Temperature : 21 - 25 degrees Celsius
Tank size : 25 gallons or more
Breeding : moderate
Diet : omnivorous
Nature : aggressive
Lifespan : 10 years or more under good care