Scissortail Sergeant

Overview

The Scissortail Sergeant is a common, gregarious damselfish widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea. Often found in small to dense schools, these fish are frequently observed swimming in open water above reef crests, lagoons, and coral-rich areas.

Appearance

This species features a tall, compressed, ovoid body with a silvery-white base color. It is easily identified by five distinct dark vertical bars along its sides and a characteristic black streak running along the upper and lower lobes of its deeply forked tail. Adults typically reach lengths of 12 to 16 cm.

Distribution & habitat

Scissortail Sergeants inhabit both inshore and offshore coral and rocky reefs. They are commonly found in light-exposed environments such as reef flats, slopes, and lagoons, typically ranging from the surface down to approximately 20 meters.

Biology & behavior

These fish are diurnal and social, often aggregating in loose schools to feed. They are known to be territorial, with individuals often returning to specific spots on the reef. The species is protogynous, meaning some individuals can transition from female to male. During the breeding season, males may display darker coloration and become highly protective of their nest sites.

Feeding

As omnivores with a carnivorous tendency, their diet consists primarily of zooplankton, drifting algae, and small benthic invertebrates. They are often seen feeding in the water column, taking advantage of currents that bring planktonic food sources to the reef.