Black-Tail Sergeant

Abudefduf lorenzi

The Black-tail Sergeant is a damselfish native to the tropical western Pacific Ocean, with a distribution that includes the Philippines, the Maluku Islands, the Solomon Islands, and Palau. It inhabits coastal areas at depths ranging from 1 to 6 meters, frequently around docks and breakwaters. This species is characterized by a compressed body and a distinctive black tail. It features 13 dorsal spines, 11 to 13 dorsal soft rays, 2 anal spines, and 12 to 13 anal soft rays. While they often form loose groups, individual fish can also be spotted swimming alone near the shore. Reproduction in the Black-tail Sergeant involves laying eggs, with pairs forming during the breeding period. Males play an active role by guarding and aerating the eggs, which are laid on the substrate. The species is non-migratory, remaining within its established range in the western central Pacific. Divers may encounter the Black-tail Sergeant in sheltered coastal waters, either in small groups or as solitary individuals. The species is considered Least Concern by the IUCN.