Bintan Damselfish

Pomacentrus bintanensis

The Bintan damselfish is a small reef fish found primarily around Bintan Island, located off the northeastern coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. This species typically inhabits turbid coastal waters where it prefers rocky bottoms. Divers can observe these fish at shallow depths ranging from 1 to 5 meters. The Bintan damselfish reaches a maximum length of 7.9 cm and is characterized by its dorsal fin structure, which includes 13 spines and 14 soft rays, and its anal fin with 2 spines and 14 soft rays. In terms of behavior, the Bintan damselfish is known for its distinct pairing during the breeding season. It is an oviparous species, meaning it lays eggs that adhere to the substrate. Male Bintan damselfish play a crucial role in guarding and aerating the eggs until they hatch. Encounters with the Bintan damselfish during dives are likely to be peaceful, as these fish are harmless to humans. They are not currently evaluated for conservation status by the IUCN. Divers exploring the rocky coastal waters of Bintan Island may have the opportunity to observe these fish in their natural habitat.