Sergeant Major (Abudefduf saxatilis)
The Sergeant Major is a bold and active marine damselfish recognised for its silver to pale body, yellow upper colouration and distinctive vertical black bars. Hardy, energetic and highly visible in the aquarium, it is an engaging species but can become increasingly territorial as it matures. Best suited to spacious marine systems with robust tankmates, the Sergeant Major is generally reef safe but should be stocked with its assertive behaviour in mind.
Common Name
Sergeant Major
Scientific Name (Latin)
Abudefduf saxatilis
Maximum Size
Approximately 20 cm
Water Type
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24-28°C |
| Salinity | 1.020 – 1.025 |
| PH | 8.1 – 8.4 |
| Water Flow | Moderate to strong |
FAQ
What is the typical size of a Sergeant Major fish?
The Sergeant Major reaches a maximum size of approximately 20 cm.
Is the Sergeant Major reef safe?
The Sergeant Major is generally reef safe, but its territorial behavior may pose a risk to smaller or more passive reef inhabitants.
How does the Sergeant Major behave in an aquarium?
It is a bold and energetic fish that becomes increasingly territorial as it matures. It is highly visible and active, making it a striking addition to a well-established marine tank.
Sue Hart –
The Sergeant Major is a vibrant and active fish that adds a lot of visual interest to my tank. It’s quite territorial, so I made sure to have a spacious system with strong tankmates. It’s healthy and stays active even after several months.
Adam Mathis –
Great coloration and movement. I noticed it becomes more aggressive as it grows, so I kept it with larger, calm fish. It’s not for beginners, but once you have the right setup, it’s a rewarding addition.
Felicity Avery –
I’ve had this fish for over a year and it’s still lively and colorful. The vertical black bars stand out well in the tank. Just be cautious about pairing it with smaller fish.