Common name: Yellow tang

General information

The Yellow Tang, Zebrasoma flavescens, is a vibrant yellow surgeonfish that is a favorite among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts. Its bright color and active swimming behavior make it a standout in any reef tank. Native to the Pacific Ocean, it is commonly found in Hawaiian waters, where it is known as 'Lau'ipala' in the Hawaiian language.

Care

Yellow Tangs require a spacious tank with plenty of room to swim and graze on algae. They are herbivores and thrive on a diet rich in marine algae and vegetable matter. It is important to maintain high water quality and stable conditions to keep these fish healthy. Yellow Tangs can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics, so care should be taken when housing multiple individuals.

Reproduction

In the wild, Yellow Tangs spawn in groups with external fertilization. In the aquarium, breeding is rare, but with the right conditions and a large enough group, it is possible to observe spawning behavior.

Symbiosis

While not known for specific symbiotic relationships, Yellow Tangs play a role in the reef ecosystem by grazing on algae, which helps prevent overgrowth and maintain the health of coral reefs.

Habitat

Yellow Tangs are found in coral-rich areas and clear lagoons, typically at depths ranging from 2 to 46 meters. They are a common sight in the reefs around the Hawaiian Islands and other parts of the central and western Pacific Ocean.