Latin name

Abudefduf sordidus

Other name

kūpīpī

Identification

The Blackspot Sergeant has a large oval body with flattened sides.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 14 - 16; Anal spines: 2; Anal soft rays: 14 - 15.

Fish colouring

The Blackspot Sergeant is usually yellowish gray with six broad brown stripes, six to seven narrow light stripes, and a black spot on the upper base of the tail. 

Distribution

Widespread throughout the Indo-Pacific region: Red Sea and East Africa to Hawaii and Pitcairn, north to Japan, south to Australia.

Habitat

A tropical marine benthopelagic, reef-associated species that prefers brackish waters. Often found at low tide and in rocky shallows with moderate slope at depths of 0 to 3 m (0 to 10 ft). 

Size

Blackspot sergeants can reach a total length of 24 centimeters (9.4 inches). They are known to live up to nine years in the wild.

Behavior

Young fish are often found in tidal areas; as they mature and grow larger, they move to deeper areas with higher tides. This species does not migrate. They sometimes form schools. Blackspot are very territorial and aggressive, especially towards other fish in low tide areas. They are often found near rocky areas during the day, although at night they tend to hide under various objects. 

Food and feeding habits

Juveniles feed on algae, small animals and plankton. Adults feed on algae, crustaceans and other invertebrates throughout the day.

Reproduction

Blackspot Sergeants lay eggs. Males build nests in rocky areas to attract females. They are said to be particularly aggressive during the mating season.

Fishing

The species is of minor commercial interest. The Blackspot Sergeant can be found in the aquarium trade.

Relationship with a person

Harmless. Hawaiians use this fish as food.