Monodactylus sebae (African moony)

(Source: Fishbase, 2003)

Scientific Name: Monodactylus sebae

Common Name: African moony

Genus: Monodactylus

Species: sebae

Ijaw Name: Palia

Family: Monodactylidae

Habitat: Rivers

Gear Type: Fishing Nets

Season of Occurrence: Raining season

Description: The African moony, is a fish species native to the eastern Atlantic, with a range extending along the African coast from Senegal to Angola. This species thrives in diverse environments, including freshwater, brackish, and marine ecosystems, commonly residing in estuaries and mangrove swamps. Its body is notably tall and laterally compressed, with a silvery color and distinct dark vertical bands that span from its dorsal fin to the anal fin, creating a striking appearance. Typically, it reaches lengths of around 15 cm but can grow up to 25 cm under optimal conditions. This species has an omnivorous diet, feeding primarily on invertebrates and small fish, and exhibits oviparous reproduction, laying eggs in brackish water. Due to its tolerance for varying salinity, the African moony is also popular in aquariums, though it is seldom bred in captivity. Despite its adaptability, the ecological impact of Monodactylus sebae outside its native range remains largely unknown, although some cases of introduction to non-native environments are attributed to aquarium releases.