Fin's Fish Guide
The Damselfish (Abudefduf sexfasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 19 cm.
Description
The scissortail sergeant is a damselfish (family Pomacentridae) of the Indo-Pacific. The species reaches about 19 cm and has a deep, silvery body with five black bars and a deeply forked tail whose lobes are black-edged, which gives it its name. It inhabits inshore and offshore coral and rocky reefs, often where there are many soft corals or hydroid colonies, and is frequently found in groups feeding on zooplankton, algae and small invertebrates. The eggs are attached to the substrate and guarded by the male. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Damselfish?
The Damselfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Forms large shoals above the reef; black-edged forked tail; the males guard the eggs attached to the bottom.
Where does the Damselfish live?
The Damselfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific, on coastal and offshore coral and rocky reefs.
How big does the Damselfish get?
The Damselfish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Damselfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Damselfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Damselfish edible?
The Damselfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Abudefduf
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Damselfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Damselfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.