Whitepatch Damsel

Dischistodus chrysopoecilus

The Whitepatch Damsel is a small reef-associated fish found in the tropical waters of the Western Central Pacific, including areas like Ashmore Reef, Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, Palau, New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. It typically inhabits coral outcrops and seagrass beds in silty areas of lagoons and coastal reefs. Divers can expect to encounter this species at shallow depths, usually between 1 and 5 meters, although it has been recorded at depths up to 40 meters. This species is characterized by its fusiform body shape with an oval cross-section. It possesses 13 dorsal spines and 14 to 15 dorsal soft rays, along with 2 anal spines and 13 to 14 anal soft rays. The maximum length recorded for the Whitepatch Damsel is 15 cm. It is a diurnal species, meaning it is active during the day. The Whitepatch Damsel is oviparous, with distinct pairing during the breeding season. The eggs are demersal, adhering to the substrate, and are guarded and aerated by the males. The IUCN has assessed this species as Least Concern.