General information – Mono Sebae are fast swimmers and very

active brackish fish. It is diamond-shaped with a larger anal fin than

the Silver Mono (Monodactylus Argenteus). The Mono Sebae is silver

with a black line covering the eyes, and a line from the tip of the

dorsal fin to the tip of the anal fin. While they young, they are usually

peaceful but become more aggressive as they grow. They also loose

their colors to become totally silver as they become older. In the wild,

Mono's go up streams and rivers to spawn. The young's then go down

these streams and get used to saltier waters. At maturity, Monos are

used to fully marine water and are found in the coastal areas of Africa,

Asia and in Australia. In captivity, Monodactylus Sebae can live up to

10 years. There is a second Monodactylus spices, called

Monodactylus argenteus (Silver Mono). 

Photo by: Chief

Scientific Name - Monodactylus Sebae

Family - Actinopterygii (ray-finned fishes)

Origin - West Africa

Size – Up to 10 inches (25 cm).

First discovered - Cuvier, 1829

Nutrition – In the wild, the Mono Sebae eats large amounts of vegetable matter. Provide it with dried

seaweed, lettuce, brine shrimp, and a quality flake food. Monos will eat most common commercial

foods as well as algae and vegetables.

Behavior - Semi-aggressive towards its own kind, and is therefore best kept in a group of 5-6 or more,

to spread out the aggression. Generally ok with other similar sized brackish fishes, such as Scats,

Puffers, and Archer's.

Maintenance and care – The Mono Sebae grows very large and requires at least 60 gallon of water

for them to develop and thrive. The tank should decorate with roots and rocks to provide it hiding places.

A powerful filtration is required as well. Mono Sabae will require salt water as they grow.

Young monos can be raised in freshwater but they usually do better in brackish then saltwater tanks.

Gradual change from brackish to saltwater will maximize the coloration and the health of the fish as

it becomes older.

Water Parameters – Temperature: 72F-80F (24C-28C), PH: 7.2-8.5

Breeding - Rarely accomplished in captivity, changes in salinity are required

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