Abudefduf natalensis Hensley & Randall, 1983
Natal sergeant
Abudefduf natalensis
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Pomacentridae (Damselfishes), subfamily: Glyphisodontinae
Max. size:  17 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 1 - 25 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Mauritius, RĂ©union, Madagascar and South Africa (from Kwazulu to Transkei).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 12-13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 12-13; Anal spines: 2-2; Anal soft rays: 12-13. Similar to A. sexfasciatus, but has one less dark bar on the sides.
Biology:  Adults inhabit rocky inshore and offshore reefs (Ref. 7247). Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding (Ref. 205). Eggs are demersal and adhere to the substrate (Ref. 205). Males guard and aerate the eggs (Ref. 205).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 07 November 2013 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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