Abudefduf notatus

Lore & Background

Abudefduf notatus is found in the Indo-Pacific, including the Indian Ocean (Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, eastern Africa, Madagascar, Seychelles, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Andaman Sea, Indonesia, Australia) and the Pacific Ocean (Gulf of Thailand, Indonesia, Great Barrier Reef, Philippines, Taiwan, Japan, New Caledonia, and various western Pacific islands). Adults inhabit coral reefs and lagoons at depths of 1 to 12 meters, while juveniles are found in the open sea.

The species grows to a maximum total length of 17 cm. It is gray with five vertical black bands and a yellow caudal fin. It has 13 dorsal spines, 13 to 14 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 13 to 14 anal soft rays. Behaviorally, it forms roving aggregations noted to be difficult to approach. It is oviparous, with distinct pairs forming during breeding, and males guard and aerate the eggs.

Reader's Guide

The yellowtail sergeant is a species of damselfish documented in the Indo-Pacific, with a broad distribution across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its maximum size of 17 cm and distinctive coloration—gray with five vertical black bands and a yellow tail—make it recognizable among damselfish. The species is known for forming roving aggregations that are difficult to approach, a behavioral trait noted in the source. Its reproductive strategy is oviparous, with pair bonding during breeding and male parental care involving egg guarding and aeration. The species is also present in the aquarium trade, indicating its relevance to marine hobbyists. The source provides no further details on its ecological significance or legacy beyond these facts.

Did You Know?

• The yellowtail sergeant can grow to a maximum total length of 17 cm.
• Adults live in coral reefs and lagoons, while juveniles are found in the open sea.
• Males guard and aerate the eggs during breeding.