are damsels always this aggressive

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frozentide
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Joined: Sat Jul 16, 2022 10:14 pm

are damsels always this aggressive

Post by frozentide »

Just got a couple of Blue Damsels for my 30-gallon tank, and they're already chasing everything. Is this normal or did I get some extra feisty ones? Tank's been running for 6 months, params are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. They're the only new additions.
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ranchero
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Joined: Wed Oct 09, 2024 11:13 pm

Re: are damsels always this aggressive

Post by ranchero »

Yep, damsels can be little terrors. I've had a few over the years, and they always seem to claim the whole tank as theirs. What other fish are in there with them? Sometimes adding more hiding spots can help diffuse the aggression.
mackenzie
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:23 pm

Re: are damsels always this aggressive

Post by mackenzie »

Mine were the same way. Had to rehome them after they started nipping at my Clownfish. They're cute but definitely not chill. You might wanna keep an eye on them if you've got smaller or slower fish in there.
DreamFox7
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Joined: Sat Jul 30, 2022 8:41 am

Re: are damsels always this aggressive

Post by DreamFox7 »

Damsels are known for their territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks. A 30-gallon might not give enough space for them to establish separate territories. Try rearranging the rocks and corals to break up their claimed areas. Also, ensure you're feeding them enough—hunger can amplify aggression.
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kadyash
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Joined: Mon Jan 17, 2022 9:00 am

Re: are damsels always this aggressive

Post by kadyash »

Classic damsel drama. They're like the tiny dictators of the reef. If you're stuck with them, maybe add a bigger, tougher fish to keep 'em in check. Just don't go too big or you'll have a whole new problem.
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