The Sergeant Major Damselfish (Abudefduf vaigiensis), also known as the Indo-Pacific Sergeant, is a species of damselfish found in the Indo-Pacific including the Red Sea.

Distribution and Habitat

The Sergeant Major Damselfish is found in the Indo-Pacific including the Red Sea. Adults live in coral reefs, tide pools, and rocky reefs at depths of 1 to 15 meters. Larvae of this species live in the open sea.

Physical Description

Its maximum recorded size is 20 cm (7.9 in). Juveniles mature at 12 cm (4.7 in). It has a distinctive pattern of vertical black stripes on a white to yellowish body resembling military sergeant stripes. Males turn more blue during spawning.

Diet and Feeding

The Sergeant Major Damselfish feeds on zooplankton, benthic algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity it accepts a varied diet including flakes, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and frozen preparations.

Behavior and Reproduction

These fish form large aggregations. Males turn more bluish during spawning. They build nests on rocks or coral ledges. Females lay their eggs in the nests and the male fertilizes them. Males guard and aerate the eggs until they hatch.

Aquarium Care

It requires a tank of at least 30 gallons with abundant live rock. It is considered reef-safe. It is semi-aggressive and should be kept with similarly sized or larger tankmates.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.