What Is the Name of This Black Tropical Fish With White Stripes?

by Douglas
(Victoria, BC)

Maui mystery (to me) fish

Maui mystery (to me) fish

Can anyone identify this fish? He is a shy fellow who was hiding under the same section of reef two days in a row along the shore at Black Rock, Kaanapali, Maui. He is not in my tropical fish guide and can't find him online. He is not a Black Spot Sergeant which is whitish with charcoal stripes. As you can see he is deep black with white stripes. Thanks.

Comments for What Is the Name of This Black Tropical Fish With White Stripes?

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Mar 19, 2011
 It Is a Blackspot Sergeant
by: Galen & Nicole

Douglas. We wondered exactly the same thing on our last trip to Hawaii. It actually IS a male Blackspot Sergeant, in mating colors. We watched one change to that color pattern. We had borrowed a book that confirmed it. We also found this resource on the web that shows the exact same fish.
Mar 19, 2011
 Thank You for Identifying My Mystery Fish
by: Douglas

Who'd have thought it?! You two are such a great resource. I can't imagine how long I might have searched and not found that answer. In other words, "Many thanks!"
Oct 23, 2017
 How Awesome... Saw This Beauty in Cape Vidal
by: Tanya van der Walt

We just saw it yesterday in Cape Vidal, South Africa. Got a nice picture and then also searched all the fish identification books. Thanks for making it so easy!
Apr 28, 2019
 Great Help
by: Bob

I have a good photo of this fish from Palau this last March. Thanks for your post.

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