scubaseason

Damselfish

Chromis chromis

Sighting evidence at Kekova Reef, Kaş

Damselfish

Photo: Tim Cameron · © all rights reserved

The Mediterranean damselfish is one of the most abundant reef fish in the region, forming dense shoals above rocky substrate and ancient stone ruins alike. It is an aggressive territory holder: males vigorously defend algae-farming patches, even chasing divers that drift too close to a nest site. Their dark colouration as juveniles transitions to a vivid violet-blue shimmer in the right light.

Evidence at this site

No confirmed records on file at this site

Damselfish is listed as a curated species here based on historical reports.

How is this calculated?

Sighting evidence is compiled from iNaturalist observation records within a set proximity radius, filtered for quality-grade observations. “Last confirmed” is the date of the most recent research-grade record. Record count covers a rolling 24-month window. Confidence reflects record count, recency, and consistency of seasonal signal.

Also seen at other sites