Western Australian Demoiselle
Neopomacentrus aktites
This common inhabitant of shallow, nearshore reefs of north-western Australia was recognised as a distinct species and described by staff and associates from the WA Museum in 2017. It is blue-grey to brownish overall in colour with dark filamentous tips to the dorsal and caudal fins and a semi-transparent to yellowish patches at the rear of the soft portion of the dorsal fin and centrally on the caudal fin.
Morphology
Ovate body shape, typical of the family, with relatively large eyes and filamentous tips at the rear of the dorsal, anal and caudal fins. A small fish, reaching a maximum length of about 6 cm.
Evolution
Closely related to and previously confused with Neopomacentrus filamentosus, a similar species which occurs in the Indo-Malayan region. The genus Neopomacentrus comprises 17 currently recognised species and belongs to the Family Pomacentridae, a diverse group of fishes containing about 400 species. Neopomacentrus is under current taxonomic revision, therefore the number of species is likely to increase.
Behaviour
Forms aggregations (sometimes large in number) above coral reefs, often on reef crests and shallower reef slopes where they feed on zooplankton. Retreats to the shelter of the reef when threatened.
Method of reproduction
Sexual
Habitat
Marine
Shallow coral reefs, from 1-10 m depth.
Distribution
Endemic to north-western Australia, where it is known from coastal and nearshore reefs from Shark Bay to the Kimberley.
Life Cycle
Oviparous
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Perciformes |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Neopomacentrus |
| Species: | aktites |
| Name Published Year: | 2017 |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name Authorship: | Allen, Moore & Allen |
| Commercial Impact: | None |
| Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/Neopomacentrus-aktites
Accessed 27 Feb 2026
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