Canary Damsel - Damselfish

Canary damsel fish are small, colourful reef fish commonly seen while snorkelling and diving in the eastern Atlantic, including around the Canary Islands, Madeira, the Azores, Cape Verde and parts of West Africa.

An Article by Hannah Mackay, Local Scuba Instructor with The Voice Fuerteventura

Despite their small size, they are highly territorial and are often seen defending their space aggressively, especially during breeding season.

What they look like

Canary damsels are small fish, usually reaching up to around 15 cm in length. They are typically dark brown to blackish in colour with bright blue markings, including blue stripes on the head and fins.

Their vivid colouring makes them easy to spot against rocky reef backgrounds.

Canary damsel near rocky reef environment in Canary Islands waters

Where they are found in Fuerteventura

They are commonly found in shallow rocky reef areas and sandy patches near reefs, typically at depths of up to around 25 metres.

They are frequently observed by snorkellers and divers around coastal reef systems.

Diet and habitat

Canary damsels feed mainly on algae and small invertebrates. They are strongly associated with rocky reef environments where food and shelter are readily available.

Behaviour

This species is highly territorial, especially during breeding periods. They will aggressively defend their nesting area against other fish and even larger intruders, including divers and snorkellers.

Despite their size, they are known for their bold behaviour and strong defensive instincts.

Reproduction

During breeding season, males and females display different behaviours and colour changes.

Females prepare and clean a nesting site before laying eggs. Males often darken in colour and may develop pale markings during courtship.

After spawning, the male guards the eggs and protects them until they hatch.

In Fuerteventura waters

Canary damsels are a common sight on reefs around the island and are part of the vibrant reef fish community that makes Fuerteventura’s shallow waters so rich in biodiversity.

The Canary damsel is part of the reef and coastal fish community found throughout Fuerteventura’s rocky reef systems.

For more marine species found in the region, see the Marine Life in Fuerteventura guide.