Pacific Sailfin Tang
Zebrasoma velifer
The Pacific Sailfin Tang is a reef-dwelling surgeonfish from the Indo-Pacific, prized in the aquarium trade. It has a tall, sail-like dorsal fin and uses its beaklike mouth to graze algae on coral and rock surfaces.
_Moorea.jpg){kind=link}
Identification points
- Very tall, sail-like dorsal fin that becomes especially prominent when extended
- Yellow to brown body crossed by many narrow vertical blue-gray stripes
- Oval, laterally compressed body with a white scalpel spine near the tail base
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, lagoon edges, and protected reef flats with abundant algal growth, typically around structure and surge-swept areas in the Indo-Pacific.
Bait notes
Not a typical target for angling and is rarely taken on hook and line. In aquaria it eats marine algae, nori, spirulina-based foods, and finely chopped vegetable matter.
Behavior
Primarily a daytime herbivore that browses filamentous and turf algae from hard substrates. It is active around reef structure and can become territorial, especially toward similar surgeonfishes.
Caution
Sharp scalpel-like spine at the tail base can cut handlers. As a reef-associated fish, consumption is not a standard use and species-specific food safety data are limited; local collection rules and aquarium trade regulations may apply.
Fishing notes
No practical recreational fishing methods are generally used because it is a reef aquarium species rather than a gamefish. If encountered, handle carefully and minimize stress to the fish and reef.