Fin's Fish Guide
The Dovetail (Abudefduf taurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacentridae that grows up to 25 cm.
Description
The night sergeant is a damselfish of the family Pomacentridae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 25 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, dusky body with several faint dark crossbars. Adults inhabit rocky inshore reefs and limestone shorelines with surf, sheltering among ledges and tide pools. It is mainly an algae eater, but adults also consume zoanthids and hydroids. The species forms distinct pairs in the breeding season; the male guards the adhesive eggs laid on the bottom and is territorial.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Dovetail?
The Dovetail has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Faint dark vertical bars; inhabits surf reefs and tide pools, the male guards the clutch.
Where does the Dovetail live?
The Dovetail lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; rocky coastal reefs with surf.
How big does the Dovetail get?
The Dovetail grows to a maximum of about 25 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Dovetail dangerous to humans?
No, the Dovetail is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Dovetail edible?
The Dovetail is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Abudefduf
More from the family Pomacentridae
Want the complete picture on the Dovetail?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Dovetail is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone