Starki Damsel

AZReef13 · Jul 18, 2020

Was wondering if anyone had any experence with the Starki damsel? I know damsel can be aggressive. There is some research that they are more peaceful than others?

I have and IM40, with Captive breed Mandarin (2.5 yrs), Blue Star Leopard wrasse, yellow coris, Ruby Longfin, and Helfrechi

looking for some color, activity and something the Ruby may focus on over Helferchi?

Thanks

AZReef13 · Jul 18, 2020

Oh, is there any major differences in color or attitude from different regions; Tonga, Australia. Java or Melanesia?

User1 · Jul 18, 2020

Several people on this forum have them. They are a very pretty Damsel fish and most report they are peaceful or that they do not bother other fish. Damsels in the Chrysiptera genus are typically reported, or regarded, as the more peaceful of the bunch. I believe the Starcki falls into this genus. It is a bit larger than the Azure and Talbots and others in the genus which makes them attractive.

Larger than a typical Damsel fish yet smaller than a pygmy angel. Great fish. I've personally never owned them but they are on my short list. Again just do a quick search on this forum and there are plenty.

tl; dr - Chrysiptera genus Damsels are typically reported by hobbyists as a safer bet.

Fishnut · Jul 18, 2020

I had one for about 5 years. It was very territorial and it would defend it’s home (a shell) from all that passed by. Even angels 5X bigger learned to avoid that section of the tank. I have no idea what part of the ocean he was from. I would try another as soon as I can find a young one for sale. I would just recommend adding them last to a tank.

Tamberav · Jul 18, 2020

I would say mine is semi aggressive and it will likely bother the firefish too. Firefish just don't have any backbone and they sleep in caves...well starkiis love caves too and dont like to share.

It is a smaller footprint tank so limited space. Maybe it's time to re-home the Ruby...those fish can be aggressive for a fairy.

AZReef13 · Jul 18, 2020

This appears to be same results I found doing research... Not sure I want to rehome Ruby yet?

Thanks all

cd459 · Jul 19, 2020

I’ve had one for a few weeks now and really enjoy it. Took about a week to become comfortable but now is out all the time. Make sure you have lots of rocks since this fish likes caves and crevices it can swim through.

There’s a reef builders article describing the differences between various locations.

Gaspipe · Mar 9, 2022

I know this is an old thread, but would like to share my experience for someone interested in purchasing one. I have a nano tank (25g) and I regret buying mine. He was/is stunning but he is mean. I mean he just terrorizes my clown and beats up my royal gramma.

I'm actually now trying to relocate him to a new home.

I think if you have a big tank and a lot of fish it's fine. But in a small tank he's gonna bully.