Common name: Sergeant Major

Scientific name: Abudefduf saxatilis (Linnaeus, 1758)
Aquarium fish - Sergeant Major or Píntano - Abudefduf saxatilis
Sergeant Major fish in the CaribbeanSergeant Major juvenile

General Information

The Sergeant Major, scientifically known as Abudefduf saxatilis, is a strikingly beautiful and active fish popular among marine aquarium enthusiasts. Recognizable by its bold black vertical stripes on a bright yellow body, this species adds a splash of color and energy to any tank. It is a member of the Pomacentridae family, which includes damselfish and clownfish.

In the wild, Sergeant Majors are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters across the Atlantic Ocean, often inhabiting coral reefs, rocky shores, and lagoons. They are named "Sergeant Major" due to the resemblance of their stripes to the insignia of a military rank.

Details

Estimated price
Affordable
Recommended minimum tank volume
200 liter (53 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.022 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
20 cm (8″)
Care level
Moderate to difficult
Diet
Omnivore Feeds on algae, plankton, and small invertebrates
Social
School Forms schools in the wild, but can be territorial in captivity
Reefsafe
No May nip at corals and invertebrates
Aggression
Semi aggresive Territorial, especially towards smaller fish
Captive bred
No
IUCN Red List
EX
EW
CR
EN
VU
NT
LC

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Damselfish
    Pomacentridae
  6. Genus
    Sergeant Major
    Abudefduf
  7. Species
    Sergeant Major
    Abudefduf saxatilis (Linnaeus, 1758)
  8. Synonyms
    Abudefduf ascensionis Fowler, 1919
    Abudefduf marginatus (Bloch, 1787)
    Abudefduf saxiatilis (Linnaeus, 1758)
    Abudefduf sexatilis (Linnaeus, 1758)
    Apogon quinquevittatus Blyth, 1858
    Chaetodon marginatus Bloch, 1787
    Chaetodon mauritii Bloch, 1787
    Chaetodon sargoides Lacepède, 1802
    Chaetodon saxatilis Linnaeus, 1758
    Glyphidodon saxatilis (Linnaeus, 1758)
    Glyphisodon biniar Montrouzier, 1857
    Glyphisodon moucharra Lacepède, 1802
    Sparus fasciatus Gronow in Gray, 1854
  9. Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Care

Sergeant Majors are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for hobbyists with moderate experience. They thrive in well-established marine aquariums with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing. These fish are known for their territorial nature, especially as they mature, and require ample space to establish their domain.

Diet and Feeding

In their natural habitat, Sergeant Majors are omnivorous, feeding on algae, plankton, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet that includes high-quality marine flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp. Feeding them twice daily in moderate portions is recommended to maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Behavior and Compatibility

Sergeant Majors are known for their semi-aggressive behavior, particularly towards smaller or similarly sized fish. They are best kept with other robust species that can hold their own. These fish are often observed displaying interesting social behaviors, such as forming schools or defending their territory vigorously.

While they can coexist with a variety of tank mates, caution is advised when introducing them to a community aquarium due to their territorial nature. They are not considered reef-safe as they may nip at corals and invertebrates.

Reproduction

Breeding Sergeant Majors in captivity can be challenging due to their aggressive behavior and specific spawning requirements. In the wild, males prepare and guard nesting sites, often on rocky surfaces, where females lay eggs. The male then fertilizes and protects the eggs until they hatch, displaying remarkable parental care.

Health and Common Issues

Sergeant Majors are generally robust and can live for several years with proper care. Maintaining good water quality and a balanced diet is crucial for their health. They are susceptible to common marine diseases like ich and marine velvet, so regular monitoring and quarantine of new tank additions are essential.

Habitat

Sergeant Majors are native to the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, ranging from the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico to the western coast of Africa. They are typically found in shallow waters, often near coral reefs or rocky outcrops where they can find food and shelter. To replicate their natural environment in captivity, provide a tank with plenty of live rock structures and open swimming space.