Common name: Black-banded demoiselle

General information

The Sergeant Major, scientifically known as Amblypomacentrus breviceps, is a species of damselfish that is popular among marine aquarists. This fish is known for its striking coloration, with five black vertical bars on a silver to yellowish background, resembling military insignia, which is how it got its common name.

Sergeant Majors are found in shallow tropical and subtropical waters around reefs where they form large schools. They are omnivorous and feed on a variety of foods including algae, small invertebrates, and plankton.

Care

Sergeant Major damselfish are relatively hardy and can be a good choice for beginner aquarists. They require an aquarium with plenty of swimming space and rockwork or coral to provide hiding places. While they are generally peaceful, they can become territorial, especially during breeding season, so it's important to monitor their behavior with other tank mates.

A varied diet of meaty foods and herbivore preparations will help maintain their health and coloration. Regular water changes and stable water parameters are essential for their well-being.

Reproduction

In the wild, Sergeant Majors are known to spawn on substrates like rocks or coral branches. The male will guard and aerate the eggs until they hatch. In the aquarium, breeding can occur but raising the fry can be challenging due to their small size and specific dietary requirements.

Habitat

Sergeant Major damselfish are native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly found from the Red Sea and East Africa to the Central Pacific. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky outcrops, usually in shallow waters but can be found at depths up to 20 meters.