Rocas Gregory

Stegastes rocasensis

The Rocas Gregory is a damselfish found exclusively in the tropical West Atlantic Ocean along the coast of Brazil, including the Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago. This species thrives in marine environments, particularly around shallow outer reefs and lagoons. Divers are likely to encounter them in rock pools and around rocky and rubble areas from the surface to depths of 60 meters, although most sightings occur at depths shallower than 40 meters. The Rocas Gregory reaches a maximum length of 9.0 cm and is characterized by its fusiform, compressed body shape. It has 12 dorsal spines and 13 to 16 dorsal soft rays, along with 2 anal spines and 13 anal soft rays. This damselfish is oviparous, with distinct pairing during the breeding season. Males play an active role in reproduction by guarding and aerating the eggs, which are demersal and adhere to the substrate. Divers observing the Rocas Gregory can expect a harmless encounter with this non-migratory fish. It is currently classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect its limited habitat range.