Yellowtail tang

Zebrasoma xanthurum

Family : Acanthuridae

FishMarinesurgeonfish

A surgeonfish with a purplish-brown body and bright yellow tail. Less common than the yellow tang, but equally appreciated.

Yellowtail tang — photo 1 sur 4
Stan Shebs · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 4
Popularity
Advanced marine fish
large tank + demanding parameters
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Mediterranean+1
Bassin méditerranéen et mer Rouge.

Description

The yellowtail tang has an oval body, purplish-brown with bluish highlights. Its caudal fin is bright yellow, contrasting with the body. It has a sharp caudal spine. Adults reach up to 20 cm. It is active and constantly swims in search of algae. In the aquarium, it can be aggressive towards other surgeonfish. It needs a large volume to swim freely.

Habitat

Region :

This fish lives in coral reefs rich in hard corals, often in small groups. It prefers areas with strong current and clear water. It is found between 2 and 20 m depth.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH8.18.4
Salinity1.021.025
NO₃
≤ 5 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.05 mg/L
Calcium
≥ 400 ppm
Magnesium
≥ 1250 ppm

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Herbivore
Min. tank
300 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
20 cm
Lifespan
12 years
Temperament
Territorial
Propagation
Not bred in captivity; pelagic spawner.

Care notes

Aquarium of at least 300 L, stable seawater (salinity 1.020–1.025, pH 8.1–8.4, temperature 24–28 °C). Herbivorous, feed with algae and vegetables. Good water flow and moderate lighting are necessary. Avoid cohabitation with other surgeonfish in a small volume. Parameters must be stable, with low nitrates. A protein skimmer is recommended.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References