Yellowtip Damselfish

Stegastes pictus

The yellowtip damselfish is a small, laterally-compressed fish, reaching up to 7.5 cm in length. It is characterized by its dark brownish-black body contrasted with bright yellow pectoral and caudal fins, and yellow eyes. Divers can identify it by the pale edge on its gill covers and its prominent dorsal fin, which has 12 spines and about 15 soft rays. The anal fin features two spines and approximately 14 soft rays, while the pectoral and pelvic fins are composed solely of soft rays. This species is endemic to the coastal waters of Brazil and is typically found in shallow rocky reefs, often in association with the fire coral Millepora alcicornis. It inhabits depths predominantly shallower than 40 meters, with most sightings occurring at depths less than 30 meters. The yellowtip damselfish is a territorial species, fiercely guarding its patch of reef where it grazes on algae and consumes detritus. During the breeding season, yellowtip damselfish form pair bonds. The female lays eggs on the seabed, and the male diligently guards and fans them to ensure they are well-aerated. Divers might encounter this species near the sea floor, where it is known to be aggressive in defending its territory. Its conservation status is listed as Least Concern.