Miry's Demoiselle

Neopomacentrus miryae

Miry's Demoiselle is a reef-associated fish found in the tropical waters of the Western Indian Ocean, particularly in the Red Sea north of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It inhabits inshore coral reefs, typically at depths ranging from 2 to 25 meters. This species reaches a maximum length of 12.5 cm and exhibits a fusiform, compressed body shape. Its dorsal fin is characterized by 13 spines and 11 to 13 soft rays, while the anal fin has 2 spines and 11 soft rays. Miry's Demoiselle is oviparous, with distinct pairing during the breeding season. The eggs are demersal, meaning they adhere to the substrate, and the males play a crucial role in guarding and aerating them. Divers may encounter this species in small groups or pairs, often near coral formations where they find shelter and breeding sites. The conservation status of Miry's Demoiselle is listed as Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List. Divers observing this species can expect a harmless encounter, as it poses no threat to humans.