Desjardin's sailfin tang
Zebrasoma desjardinii
Family : Acanthuridae
Desjardin's sailfin tang is a marine reef fish with a tall, laterally compressed body, recognizable by its yellow and black stripes and large sail-like dorsal fin.
Description
This surgeonfish reaches up to 40 cm in length. Its body is oval and highly compressed, with an extremely developed dorsal fin that unfurls like a sail. Juvenile coloration is bright yellow with vertical black bands, while adults become darker with complex patterns. It has a sharp caudal spine used for defense. It is a herbivorous grazer feeding mainly on filamentous algae. It is active during the day and can be territorial towards other surgeonfish. In an aquarium, it requires a large water volume and a diet rich in vegetables.
Habitat
Region :
Coral reefs, lagoons and reef slopes
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Maintain a temperature of 24–28 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, and salinity 1.020–1.025. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended for an adult. The diet should consist of algae (nori, spirulina) and fresh vegetables, supplemented with vitamin-enriched foods. Avoid keeping it with other surgeonfish in insufficient volume, as it can become aggressive. It is sensitive to skin diseases like ich and requires good filtration. Abundant live rock promotes natural grazing. Cohabitation with peaceful fish is possible if space is adequate.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
