Common name: Mamo
General information
The Hawaiian Sergeant, scientifically known as Abudefduf abdominalis, is a species of damselfish that is popular among aquarists for its striking appearance and active behavior. This fish is characterized by its bright yellow body and five vertical black bars, which make it a visually appealing addition to any marine aquarium.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 27 °C (72 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 22 cm (9″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs ample swimming space
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet of meaty foods and algae
- Social
- School Best in groups, can be territorial
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be territorial with conspecifics
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusSergeant MajorAbudefduf
- SpeciesMamoAbudefduf abdominalis (Quoy & Gaimard, 1825)
- SynonymsGlyphisodon abdominalis Quoy & Gaimard, 1825
Care
Hawaiian Sergeants are relatively hardy and can adapt to a variety of tank conditions. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. It's important to maintain high water quality and stable parameters to keep these fish healthy. They are omnivorous and will accept a wide range of foods, including frozen and flake foods, but a varied diet is key to maintaining their vibrant coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Abudefduf abdominalis forms breeding pairs during the mating season. They are known to lay their eggs in the crevices of rocks or corals, where the male diligently guards the nest until the eggs hatch. While breeding them in captivity can be challenging, it is possible with a well-structured environment and careful attention to water quality.
Habitat
The Hawaiian Sergeant is native to the Indo-Pacific region, where it is commonly found in shallow reefs and lagoons. They are often seen in groups, swimming actively around coral heads and rock formations. In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with live rock and ample swimming space can contribute to their well-being.