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are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Fri Sep 26, 2025 12:19 pm
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.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Fri Sep 26, 2025 3:16 pm
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.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Sat Sep 27, 2025 11:32 am
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.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Sat Sep 27, 2025 1:15 pm
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.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Mon Sep 29, 2025 4:17 pm
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.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Wed Oct 08, 2025 8:19 am
by musea
I've had success with damsels in larger tanks, but even then, they're feisty. How's your water flow? Sometimes higher flow can distract them from bullying. Also, what's your feeding schedule like? Maybe they're just bored.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Thu Oct 09, 2025 2:56 pm
by frozentide
ranchero wrote: ↑Fri Sep 26, 2025 3:16 pm
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.
Thanks for the tip. I've got a pair of Clowns and a Firefish. Gonna try adding more rockwork this weekend.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2025 12:51 pm
by DreamFox7
mackenzie wrote: ↑Sat Sep 27, 2025 11:32 am
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.
Clowns can hold their own, but Firefish are more delicate. Keep an eye on the Firefish—they're often targets for bullies.
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Thu Nov 13, 2025 11:09 pm
by kadyash
Yeah, Firefish are basically damsel snacks. If they start looking stressed, you might need to rethink the tank lineup. Or get a bigger tank. Always the solution, right?
Re: are damsels always this aggressive
Posted: Fri Nov 14, 2025 9:05 am
by ranchero
DreamFox7 wrote: ↑Sat Sep 27, 2025 1:15 pm
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.
Solid advice. I've found that feeding smaller amounts multiple times a day can help keep the peace too.