Silver Mono

Monodactylus argenteus, commonly known as the silver moony, natal moony, butter bream, or diamondfish, belongs to the Monodactylidae family. It is native to regions of the western Pacific and 🌊 Indian Oceans, including the 🌊 Persian Gulf, 🌊 Red Sea, and various estuarine environments such as the Mekong Delta.

This versatile species inhabits marine, freshwater, and brackish environments, thriving primarily in pelagic-neritic zones at depths ranging from 1 to 12 meters. Monodactylus argenteus can grow up to 27 centimeters in length, although its common size is about 12 centimeters. It is characterized by its shiny silver appearance with yellowish fin edges, black-tipped dorsal and anal fins, and two distinct vertical black bands in juveniles.

The silver moony is typically found in bays, mangrove estuaries, tidal creeks, and the lower sections of freshwater streams, occasionally venturing into silty coastal reefs. It feeds on plankton and detritus and often travels in large schools. While juveniles frequently enter freshwater, the species generally prefers salt or brackish water environments. It is known for its territorial behavior and is usually captured using throw nets.

Owing to its adaptability to varying salinities, Monodactylus argenteus is a valuable model for studying salinity tolerance. In 🇦🇺 Australia, it is commonly located in harbors and estuaries, particularly around piers. Despite their territorial nature, these fish adjust well to saltwater aquariums and can be easily raised in captivity, where they can either remain solitary or school together.

Notably, the myxozoan parasite Kudoa monodactyli was first identified in and named after this species.