Common name: Hawaiian Sergeant

General Information

The Hawaiian Sergeant, scientifically known as Abudefduf abdominalis, is a striking species found predominantly in the warm waters of the Hawaiian Islands. Known for its bold black vertical stripes against a silvery-white body, this fish is a captivating addition to any marine aquarium. Its hardy nature and adaptability make it a popular choice among hobbyists looking to add a touch of the tropics to their tanks.

While not as famous as some other reef fish, the Hawaiian Sergeant holds its own in the aquarium trade due to its vibrant appearance and active swimming behavior. This species can often be seen in public aquariums, where it is appreciated for its schooling behavior and compatibility with other peaceful fish.

Care

The Hawaiian Sergeant is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. It thrives in a well-maintained marine aquarium with plenty of swimming space and a variety of hiding spots created by live rock formations. While it can adapt to a range of conditions, maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for its health.

When setting up a tank for the Hawaiian Sergeant, ensure that there is ample space for schooling as these fish are naturally social and enjoy the company of their own kind. A tank of at least 200 liters is recommended, especially if you plan to keep a small group.

Diet and Feeding

The Hawaiian Sergeant is an omnivore with a diet that includes plankton, algae, and small invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, it readily accepts a variety of foods, including high-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp.

Feeding should be done once or twice a day, offering amounts that can be consumed within a few minutes. A varied diet will ensure optimal health and vibrant coloration.

Behavior and Compatibility

Hawaiian Sergeants are known for their peaceful temperament, making them excellent candidates for community tanks. They are active swimmers and prefer to be kept in groups, which allows them to exhibit natural schooling behavior. This social structure not only reduces stress but also enhances their display.

While generally peaceful, they may exhibit mild territorial behavior, especially during breeding. It is advisable to provide ample space and hiding spots to mitigate any potential aggression.

Reproduction

Breeding Hawaiian Sergeants in captivity is challenging but possible. They are egg layers, and during the breeding season, males become more territorial, often guarding a chosen area where the female lays her eggs. The male will then fertilize and protect the eggs until they hatch.

Raising the fry requires careful attention to water quality and a diet of rotifers or finely crushed foods suitable for small mouths.

Habitat

The Hawaiian Sergeant is native to the Indo-Pacific region, with a strong presence around the Hawaiian Islands. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky shores, often found in shallow waters where it can form large schools.

In the wild, these fish prefer environments with plenty of hiding spots and moderate water flow, conditions that can be replicated in captivity to keep them comfortable and healthy.