The green damselfish (Abudefduf abdominalis),[3] also known as the Hawaiian sergeant major, is a non-migratory fish of the family Pomacentridae. This fish also goes by the name maomao[4] It occurs in the Pacific Ocean in the vicinity of the Hawaiian Islands, Midway Island and Johnston Atoll.[1] It can grow to a maximum total length of 30 centimetres (12 in).
| Green damselfish | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Family: | Pomacentridae |
| Genus: | Abudefduf |
| Species: | A. abdominalis |
| Binomial name | |
| Abudefduf abdominalis | |
| Synonyms[2] | |
|
Glyphisodon abdominalis Quoy & Gaimard, 1825 | |
Adults of the species are typically found in quiet waters with rocky bottoms in inshore and offshore reefs at a depth of 1 to 50 m (3 ft 3 in to 164 ft 1 in), although juveniles may sometimes be found in surge pools. It is a benthopelagic species, with adults being known to form schools. The species feeds on a variety of algae and zooplankton. It is known to be used as a food source for humans in Hawaii.[2] It occasionally appears in the aquarium trade.[1]
Breeding
Abudefduf abdominalis is oviparous, with distinct pairing occurring during breeding. Abudefduf abdominalis is known for being a species of fish that are polygamous during their breeding time.[5]Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate, with males guarding and aerating the eggs. Breeding cycles depend on the availability of food.[6] It is known to hybridise with Abudefduf vaigiensis which has been introduced to Hawaiian coastal waters.[7] Abudefduf abdominalis are capable of spawning year round, though are most active during mid December all through July[8]
Appearance
These fishes can range from 7 inches to 9 inches on average. [9]The juveniles start out with a yellow tinge, which turns greenish white as they mature. The rear fin has a black marking.[9] During breeding the males turn blue and their black bars begin to fade into a gray instead. [8]
Diet
These fish are known to nibble on zooplankton, Copepods usually[8] and on occasion they'll also eat algae.[9]
Predators
Some fish that prey on this species include but are not limited to the Milletseed Butterflyfish, Racoon Butterflyfish, and the Black Triggerfish.[10]
References
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