Australian Gregory

Plectroglyphidodon apicalis

The Australian Gregory, also known as the yellowtip gregory, is a damselfish native to the Western Pacific. It is primarily found along the east coast of Australia, including the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, and New South Wales. This species has also been recorded in Taiwan and Ouvéa Island in the Loyalty Islands. Divers can identify the Australian Gregory by its dark brown body, which features red or yellow margins on the caudal and dorsal fins. Its scales have blackish streaks near the margins, creating the appearance of narrow transverse bands, and it is adorned with small blue spots on the head, breast, and sides. This fish is typically found in shallow waters, ranging from 1 to 5 meters deep, and is associated with reef environments. It prefers habitats around dead coral outcrops and rubble areas in lagoons and on the outer edges of reefs. The Australian Gregory is non-migratory and exhibits territorial behavior, often found guarding its chosen area. Reproduction in the Australian Gregory involves distinct pairing during breeding, with males taking on the responsibility of guarding and aerating the demersal eggs that adhere to the substrate. Despite its presence in various locations, the conservation status of this species has not been evaluated by the IUCN.