Description

Mono Sebae Angel Fish (Monodactylus sebae)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Monodactylus sebae
Common Names: Mono Sebae, African Mono, Sebae Mono, Silver Moony
Family: Monodactylidae
Order: Perciformes
Origin: West African coastal regions — from Senegal to Angola, including estuaries and mangrove swamps
Size: Up to 20–25 cm (8–10 inches)
Lifespan: 7 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Middle to upper regions

🌊 Water Parameters

Temperature: 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F)
pH: 7.5 – 8.5
Hardness: 8 – 20 dGH
Salinity: Brackish to slightly marine (1.005 – 1.015 SG)

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Deep, laterally compressed diamond-shaped body with tall dorsal and anal fins resembling an angelfish.
Coloration: Shiny silver body with two bold black vertical stripes — one through the eye and one behind the gill cover.
Fins: Dorsal and anal fins have yellow to greenish hues with black edging, adding contrast to the silver body.
Behavior: Energetic and social schooling fish that displays graceful, coordinated movements.
Special Feature: Known as the “brackish water angelfish,” the Mono Sebae’s unique combination of silver sheen and triangular profile makes it a standout in large aquariums.

🍽️ Diet

Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and blanched vegetables.
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small amounts.
Tip: Offer varied foods including algae-based pellets for balanced nutrition.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters (80 gallons) for a small group.
Filtration: Strong filtration system with excellent water movement and oxygenation.
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel.
Decor: Driftwood, smooth rocks, and hardy brackish plants like Java Fern or Anubias attached to décor.
Lighting: Moderate to bright; enhances silver and yellow coloration.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly; maintain stable salinity for long-term health.

👥 Social Behavior

Group Size: Best kept in schools of 4–6 or more; solitary fish may become stressed.
Tank Mates: Ideal with Scats, Archers, Mollies, and other brackish species.
Avoid: Aggressive or overly territorial fish.
Compatibility: Peaceful but active; thrives in groups.

✅ Do’s
• Maintain brackish water with stable salinity.
• Keep in groups for natural behavior.
• Provide open swimming space.

❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep in soft freshwater as adults.
• Avoid overcrowded tanks.
• Don’t mix with small, delicate species.

⭐ Quick Tip
The Mono Sebae Angel Fish is a majestic and shimmering brackish species that resembles a marine angelfish. Its elegant shape, schooling behavior, and silvery charm make it a perfect centerpiece for large, well-maintained brackish aquariums.