Sailfin tang

Zebrasoma veliferum

Family : Acanthuridae

FishMarinesurgeonfish

Majestic surgeonfish with a large sail-like dorsal fin, highly prized in marine aquariums.

Sailfin tang — photo 1 sur 4
NPS photo - Bryan Harry · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain1 / 4
Popularity
Advanced marine fish
large tank + demanding parameters
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Indo-Pacific
Récifs coralliens de l'océan Indien et Pacifique tropical.

Description

The sailfin tang is a large marine fish (up to 40 cm) recognizable by its very tall dorsal fin that spreads like a sail. Its coloration is brown-yellow with dark vertical bands. It is herbivorous and grazes on algae on rocks. It is an active fish that requires a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space.

Habitat

Region :

Coral reefs, lagoons and reef slopes

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.1 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Herbivore
Min. tank
300 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
40 cm
Lifespan
10 years
Temperament
peaceful but territorial
Propagation
Reproduction en captivité rare; ponte en pleine eau, les œufs dérivent.

Care notes

Tank of at least 300 liters with rockwork and algae to graze. Stable water with salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 24-28°C. Can be territorial towards other surgeonfish. Feed with dried algae (nori), spirulina-based pellets, and fresh vegetables.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References