One of a number of species belonging to the family Pomacentridae, most usually Chromis chromis. Many other species within the family have common names that include the word "damselfish", but in almost all cases this is qualified with an adjective or other descriptor.

One of a number of species belonging to the family Pomacentridae, most usually Chromis chromis. Many other species within the family have common names that include the word "damselfish", but in almost all cases this is qualified with an adjective or other descriptor.

The average size of such damselfish is around 7.6 centimetres (3 inches). They are all marine and usually have bright colours. Some species of damselfish are able to adapt well in an average aquarium, but others such as the white-spotted damselfish cannot. Sometimes the fish cannot breed in captivity. The diet of a damselfish can include small crustaceans, plankton, and algae.

Many spieces of damselfish are kept as aquaria, and live in tropical coral reefs; however, many also live in temperate climates. One example would be damsels inhabiting the Catalina islands in California.