Bengal Sergeant Major

Abudefduf bengalensis 

Habitat & Distribution :  Indo-Pacific Ocean 

Diet : Zooplankton, algae and small invertebrates 

Size: Up to 17 cm 

Lifespan: 2-6 years

Description

Their body is generally whitish to pale greyish or yellowish-white, characterized by six to seven narrow, vertical black bars (or bands) on each side 

Behavior

They are highly active and territorial damselfish known for its bold personality. They are common in shallow tropical waters, often found in coastal lagoons and coral reefs 

Reproduction

During the breeding season, males turn dark grey with pale horizontal lines. Males guard and aerate the demersal eggs, which are attached to the substrate, until they hatch 

Communication & Perception

They communicate through a combination of visual, acoustic, and behavioral signals, particularly during mating and territorial disputes. 

Predator(s)

Trevally, sharks, groupers and other larger predatory fish