3 Striped Damsels Stressed?

[BlondeBrutality]

Last night we put our first fish in our tank, two 3 striped damsels. I can't find very much info about these fish so I thought I'd ask here. Both fish have a greyish tint between their upper 1st and 2nd stripes, I don't remember seeing that when we brought them home. Is that normal or are they stressed out? Both are eatting fine, but the larger one has been hiding behind the filter and keeping mainly close to the top so his fin sticks out of the water a little. He will come out every now and then to swim, but he acts like he's scared. Is this normal behavior for a damsel in a new home? Any feedback will help. Thanks |

 

[SkiFletch]

Damsels are exceptionally territorial fish. So much so that individual damsels can sometimes even chase and stress fish many times your size. They dont care if its another damsel, a clownfish, or an angelfish, if they dont like it they'll try and bully it. Its quite possible that one of your damsels has scared the other into hiding in a corner. IMO, damsels have no place in a reef tank. Sure there are exceptions to the rule, but you'll hear way more negatives about damsels than you will positives

 

[BlondeBrutality]

Thanks for the input. The biger damsel does seem scared, but I think its of us. He seems fine when were not by the tank, as soon as we step up he hides. I don't think he's being bullied by the other, they swim together and explore the tank. Are they typically shy fish? We only got them because we were told they are great starter fish and they are hardy and if we were to *knock on wood* accidently kill them, we wouldn't be out much money. That sounds terrible, but I'd feel a lot worse if I was at fault for killling clownfish. My husband and I were just weary to add expensive fish just yet since we are new to the whole saltwater experience.

 

[SkiFletch]

In that they're really hardy fish, you were advised correctly for SURE. Damsels are pretty much the hardiest of marine fish. Over the next few days you'll see the damsels getting more and more bold, fear not. If I were you, once you guys feel comfortable and are considering another fish, trade the damsels in before adding another fish. Dont want their territorial tendencies to bite you

 

[Mr.September15]

Yeppers. Just trade them when your going to get new fish

 

[BlondeBrutality]

Awww that's sad, I love my Doug and Steve Butabi! But that does sound like the best thing to do. Thanks.