Red Honey Damsel

The Red Honey Damsel (Neoglyphidodon crossi), also commonly known as the Cross' Damselfish or Orange Honey Damsel, is a hardy marine fish native to the Western Central Pacific Ocean. It is popular in the aquarium trade due to its vibrant juvenile colors, but it undergoes a dramatic physical and behavioral transformation as it matures.

• Juvenile Stage: Possesses a bright reddish-orange body accented by a striking, electric blue horizontal line stretching from above the eye to the tail.
• Adult Stage: Completely loses its vibrant orange and blue markings over time, dulling into a uniform dark brown or grayish-brown color.
• Maximum Size: Grows up to 4 to 5 inches in length, making it one of the larger, thick-bodied damselfish species. 

• High Aggression: Extremely territorial and aggressive, especially as it ages. It will aggressively defend its territory from other fish.
• System Limits: Keep only one individual per tank in smaller setups. Small groups should only be kept in massive systems to avoid fatal fighting.
• Invertebrate Risk: While technically reef safe with corals, large adults may attack or eat small ornamental shrimp.
• Ideal Tankmates: House only with other large, aggressive, or fast-moving semi-aggressive fish that can handle its bullying. 

• Minimum Tank Size: Requires an aquarium of at least 30 to 55 gallons with ample rockwork.
• Aquarium Layout: Needs plenty of live rock arranged to form caves, crevices, and hiding spots.
• Water Parameters: Thrives in temperatures between 74°F–82°F, a pH of 7.9–8.5, and a specific gravity of 1.020–1.027.
• Diet: Non-fussy omnivore. Eagerly consumes mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, high-quality flakes, and pellet foods.