Fin's Fish Guide
The Ebony gregory (Stegastes limbatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 15 cm.
Eastern Atlantic, endemic around the Cape Verde Islands, on rocky reefs of shallow coastal water.
Description
The ebony gregory is a stocky, dark reef fish of the family Pomacentridae (damselfishes) reaching about 15 cm and endemic around the Cape Verde Islands. The laterally compressed body is mostly dark brown to black. Like many damselfishes the species is strongly territorial: it fiercely defends a patch of reef on which it farms and grazes a 'garden' of algae, supplemented with small invertebrates, chasing off much larger intruders. It lives on rocky reefs of shallow coastal water. In the breeding season the female lays the eggs on the rock, after which the male defends and cleans the clutch until it hatches. Because of its small size it has no fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ebony gregory?
The Ebony gregory has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly black and shows a plain pattern. Stocky, dark reef fish (damselfish) that fiercely defends its own patch of reef and cultivates a small algal garden on it.
Where does the Ebony gregory live?
The Ebony gregory lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic, endemic around the Cape Verde Islands, on rocky reefs of shallow coastal water.
How big does the Ebony gregory get?
The Ebony gregory grows to a maximum of about 15 cm.
Is the Ebony gregory dangerous to humans?
No, the Ebony gregory is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ebony gregory edible?
The Ebony gregory is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Stegastes
More from the family Pomacentridae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ebony gregory is one of 12,519 species in the app.