Damselfishes
Indo-Pacific sergeant (Abudefduf vaigiensis)
The Indo-Pacific sergeant (Abudefduf vaigiensis) belongs to the family Pomacentridae (damselfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is an omnivore and usually seen in loose aggregations. It reaches about 20 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Abudefduf vaigiensis |
|---|---|
| Family | Damselfishes (Pomacentridae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce sergente maggiore |
| Common name (EN) | Indo-Pacific sergeant |
| Maximum size | 20 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Indo-Pacific sergeant belong to?
- The Indo-Pacific sergeant (Abudefduf vaigiensis) belongs to the family Pomacentridae (damselfishes).
- Is the Indo-Pacific sergeant dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Indo-Pacific sergeant endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Indo-Pacific sergeant get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 20 cm.
Explore the Indo-Pacific sergeant in 3D in the interactive atlas →