Common name: Red Sea Sailfin Tang
General information
The Desjardini Sailfin Tang, Zebrasoma desjardinii, is a striking member of the surgeonfish family Acanthuridae. It is known for its vibrant coloration and large, distinctive dorsal and anal fins that resemble sails, hence the name 'sailfin'. Juveniles exhibit a different color pattern compared to adults, with white and dark bands that transform into a more mottled appearance with age.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 400 liter (110 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 40 cm (1′4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs ample swimming space
- Diet
- Herbivore Prefers algae-based foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, especially with conspecifics
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be aggressive to similar species
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilySurgeonfishAcanthuridae
- GenusSailfin TangZebrasoma
- SpeciesRed Sea Sailfin TangZebrasoma desjardinii (Bennett, 1836)
- SynonymsAcanthurus desjardinii Bennett, 1836
Care
Desjardini Sailfin Tangs require large aquariums due to their potential size and active swimming behavior. They are herbivorous and need a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter to maintain their health and coloration. It's important to provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding spaces. These tangs can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics or similar species, so careful consideration should be given when adding them to a community tank.
Reproduction
In the wild, Desjardini Sailfin Tangs form large spawning aggregations. However, breeding in the home aquarium is rare. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs.
Habitat
Native to the Indian Ocean, including the Red Sea, the Desjardini Sailfin Tang inhabits coral reefs and lagoons. They are often found in clear water conditions and can be seen grazing on algae growing on the reef substrate.