Common name: spot pom
General information
The Blackspot Sergeant, scientifically known as Abudefduf sordidus, is a species of damselfish that is recognized by its distinctive black spots and aggressive territorial behavior. It is a hardy fish that adapts well to life in captivity, making it a suitable choice for both novice and experienced aquarists.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 200 liter (53 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 20 cm (8″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable to aquarium life
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae
- Social
- School Best in groups
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at small fish
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilyDamselfishPomacentridae
- GenusSergeant MajorAbudefduf
- Speciesspot pomAbudefduf sordidus (Forsskål, 1775)
- SynonymsAbudefduf tridentatus Clark, 1938Chaetodon sordidus Forsskål, 1775Glyphidodon adenensis Günther, 1867Glyphidodon leucopleura Day, 1877Glyphisodon geant Liénard, 1829Glyphisodon gigas Allen, 1991Glyphisodon gigas Liénard, 1839
Care
Blackspot Sergeants are relatively easy to care for. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding spaces. These fish are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and frozen or live meaty foods. It's important to maintain high water quality and stable conditions to keep them healthy.
Reproduction
In the wild, Blackspot Sergeants are known to form breeding pairs or small groups. They lay their eggs on substrates, which are then guarded by the male until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can be a challenging endeavor and is typically only attempted by more experienced hobbyists.
Habitat
Blackspot Sergeants are found in a variety of reef environments, from shallow lagoons to deeper waters. They are commonly seen in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, and the central Pacific Ocean. In the wild, they are often found in association with coral rubble or live rock where they can establish territories.