Yellow Tang
Zebrasoma flavescens
Yellow Tang is a bright lemon-yellow surgeonfish from Hawaiian and central Pacific reefs, popular in aquariums but not a typical angling target. It grazes algae on shallow coral and rocky reefs and is protected from harvest in some areas.
Identification points
- Uniform bright yellow body and fins with no bars or spots on adults
- Laterally compressed oval body with a steep forehead profile
- Single sharp white erectile spine on each side of the caudal peduncle (surgeonfish 'scalpel')
Habitat
Shallow coral and rocky reef flats, surge channels, and lagoon margins with abundant turf algae; most common over clear, warm tropical saltwater reefs.
Bait notes
Not a practical bait species and rarely targeted by anglers. If encountered, it is usually taken incidentally on very small algae-like offerings or tiny nymph-sized flies near reef algae, but collection may be restricted.
Behavior
Diurnal algae grazer that browses continuously on filamentous and turf algae and is active in open reef areas, often in loose groups; uses its scalpel-like tail spine defensively.
Caution
Sharp tail spine can inflict cuts; some reef collection is regulated or prohibited, especially in Hawaii. As a small herbivorous reef fish it is not a common food fish, so consumption is uncommon.
Fishing notes
Best avoided by anglers; reef collection is regulated in many places and this fish is more relevant to aquarium trade than sport fishing. Handle only if legal and necessary, using a net rather than bare hands.