Abudefduf sexfasciatus

Datasheet

General Description

The Scissortail Sergeant, scientifically known as Abudefduf sexfasciatus, belongs to the Pomacentridae family. These fish are characterized by their aggressive behavior, particularly as they grow larger compared to other species within the family. They are native to the waters of the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the Red Sea to southern Japan and down to Lord Howe and Rapa islands.

Aquarium Suitability

With a hardiness rating of "Hardy," Scissortail Sergeants are considered suitable for aquariums with care. However, their aggressive nature towards other fish makes it crucial to exercise caution when selecting tank mates. These fish are best kept with species that can handle their aggressiveness or in larger tanks with plenty of hiding spaces to mitigate potential conflicts.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Scissortail Sergeants have specific water parameter requirements, including a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, a pH of 8.1-8.4, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. Their hardy nature facilitates their care in a well-maintained aquarium environment, provided they receive a varied diet consisting of microalgae, small crustaceans, and zooplankton.

Reef Suitability

The Scissortail Sergeant is deemed reef-compatible, being classified as always reef-safe. Their aggressive tendencies, however, can pose a threat to other tank inhabitants if not carefully monitored. Adequate space and appropriate tank mates are important considerations when keeping them in a reef setup.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up a tank for Scissortail Sergeants, it is essential to provide ample hiding spots and open swimming areas. Rocks, caves, and live rock formations can create suitable environments for these fish. Ensuring sufficient space and refuge spaces can help alleviate their aggressive behavior.

Behaviour

Known for their aggressive temperament, Scissortail Sergeants can exhibit territorial behavior towards other fish. Regular feeding, the provision of hiding spots, and ample space can help reduce their aggressiveness to some extent within the aquarium setting.

Feeding and Diet

In captivity, Scissortail Sergeants thrive on a diet consisting of microalgae like spirulina, small crustaceans such as krill and mysis, and zooplankton like cyclops and pods. Offering a varied diet rich in nutrients is crucial for maintaining their health and vitality.

Habitat and Distribution

Scissortail Sergeants inhabit a wide range of habitats in the East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, The Red Sea, Indonesia, and the Central/West Pacific. Their distribution spans from the Red Sea to Pinda, Mozambique, and various islands in the Indo-Pacific region, where they are commonly found in reef environments.