Chrysiptera springeri (Springer’s Damselfish / Blue Sapphire Damselfish)
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ✅ Yes
• Coral safe: ✅ Yes
• Minimum tank size: 75L+ (preferably 100L+ for groups)
• Adult size: ~5.5 cm (2.2 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous (marine pellets, frozen mysis/brine shrimp, algae-based foods)
• Be aware of: Less aggressive than other damselfish, but still territorial, especially as adults. Can help control certain pests like flatworms in reef tanks. Juveniles are peaceful, but adults may become dominant over smaller fish in confined spaces.
Springer’s Damselfish (Chrysiptera springeri) – A Hardy and Pest-Control Marine Fish
The Springer’s Damselfish, also known as the Blue Sapphire Damselfish, is a beautiful and robust reef fish that is prized for its vibrant coloration and beneficial behavior in aquariums. Unlike many other damselfish, C. springeri is one of the least aggressive species, making it an excellent choice for peaceful and semi-aggressive reef tanks. Additionally, it is known to consume flatworms, making it a natural pest controller in reef systems.
Appearance and Coloration
Springer’s Damselfish is instantly recognizable due to its:
• Deep electric blue body, which appears almost metallic under bright lighting.
• Sleek, streamlined body shape, allowing for fast, darting movements.
• Black markings along the lower body and face, which may vary among individuals.
• Small adult size (~5.5 cm / 2.2 inches), making it suitable for nano and community reef tanks.
Unlike some damselfish, Springer’s Damselfish maintains its vibrant color throughout its life and does not fade significantly with age.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
Native to the western Pacific, including Indonesia and the Philippines, Springer’s Damselfish inhabits shallow reefs and rocky coastal areas, where they:
• Live in small social groups, but also do well as solitary individuals.
• Prefer coral-rich environments, often swimming among branching corals like Acropora.
• Defend small territories, but are much less aggressive than species like Dascyllus or Chrysiptera cyanea.
• Are highly active swimmers, constantly patrolling their space in search of food and shelter.
In captivity, they retain their active and inquisitive nature, often being among the first fish to greet their owners.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
Due to their territorial but manageable aggression, Springer’s Damselfish require a well-structured aquarium with plenty of hiding places.
• Minimum tank size: 75L+ (100L+ recommended for groups or community tanks)
• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.020–1.025
• Water movement: Moderate to strong
• Filtration: Good filtration and regular water changes to maintain stable water conditions.
A tank with plenty of caves, rock formations, and coral structures provides natural shelter, reducing stress and territorial disputes.
Diet and Feeding
Springer’s Damselfish are omnivorous and require a balanced diet for vibrant coloration and overall health.
Recommended foods include:
• Frozen mysis and brine shrimp – Provides protein.
• High-quality marine pellets and flakes – Look for color-enhancing formulas.
• Algae-based foods and spirulina – Supports digestion and coloration.
• Finely chopped seafood (shrimp, squid, or fish) – Occasional protein treats.
• Live flatworms and small invertebrates – Natural pest control in reef tanks.
Feed once or twice daily, ensuring a mix of protein and plant-based foods to maintain their color and energy levels.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
Springer’s Damselfish are one of the least aggressive damselfish, making them a great choice for community tanks.
✔ Peaceful and semi-aggressive tank mates, such as Clownfish, Wrasses, Tangs, and Blennies.
✔ Larger, non-aggressive fish, which can hold their own against minor damselfish aggression.
✔ Reef-safe invertebrates, including shrimp, snails, and crabs.
Avoid housing with:
❌ Highly aggressive fish, such as large Dottybacks or aggressive Triggerfish.
❌ More aggressive damselfish species, as they may become territorial toward their own kind.
❌ Very small, delicate fish, which may be harassed.
⚠ If keeping multiple Springer’s Damselfish, introduce them simultaneously and provide ample hiding spots to reduce aggression.
Behavior and Territoriality
Unlike more aggressive damselfish, Springer’s Damselfish:
• Are much more peaceful, making them one of the best damselfish for community reef tanks.
• Will defend a small territory, but rarely cause significant problems.
• Are active swimmers, constantly exploring their surroundings.
⚠ If kept in a small tank, they may become more territorial. Keeping them in larger aquariums with good hiding spots helps prevent aggression.
Pest Control Benefits
One of the biggest advantages of keeping Springer’s Damselfish is their natural appetite for pests, such as:
• Flatworms (Acoel worms) – Common in reef tanks and difficult to remove manually.
• Small invertebrates and parasites, which they actively hunt in rock crevices.
⚠ While they help control flatworms, they should not be relied upon as the sole method of pest management.
Health and Disease Considerations
Springer’s Damselfish are extremely hardy, but they can be vulnerable to:
• Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans) – Often caused by stress or poor water quality.
• Bacterial infections – Can occur from territorial disputes or injuries.
• Nutritional deficiencies – A varied diet helps prevent color fading and immune issues.
To keep them healthy:
✔ Provide a balanced diet with a mix of protein and plant-based foods.
✔ Ensure stable water conditions with proper filtration.
✔ Quarantine new fish before introducing them to the main tank.
Lifespan and Long-Term Care
With proper care, Springer’s Damselfish can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. Their resilient nature, bold personality, and striking coloration make them a great addition to well-planned reef tanks.
Why Choose a Springer’s Damselfish?
✔ One of the most peaceful damselfish, suitable for reef tanks.
✔ Hardy and beginner-friendly, adapting well to various conditions.
✔ More community-friendly than other damselfish, making them easier to house with other fish.
✔ Completely reef-safe, with no risk to corals or invertebrates.
✔ Helps control flatworms, adding a natural pest-management element.
✔ Long lifespan, making them a great long-term addition to aquariums.
⚠ Important Considerations Before Buying a Springer’s Damselfish:
🚫 May become territorial in small tanks – Best suited for well-structured reef systems.
🚫 Can still be feisty, but is much less aggressive than other damselfish.
🚫 Best introduced in groups if keeping multiples, to prevent a single dominant individual.