Species · GBIF taxon 2379534
Palette Surgeonfish
Paracanthurus hepatusAlso known as Blue Tang, Regal Tang, Hippo Tang, Flagtail Surgeonfish
Palette surgeonfish navigate high-current reef slopes in loose aggregations, feeding primarily on drifting zooplankton. When threatened, these vibrant fish wedge themselves tightly into the branches of cauliflower corals, using their sharp tail spines to lock in place. Young individuals rely heavily on protective coral heads, while mature adults roam wider territories across the reef crest.
Reef-dwellingColorfulDiurnal
Licensed reference(c) H. Krisp, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Zooplankton
- Filamentous algae
Predators
- Groupers
- Snappers
- Moray eels
ThreatsHabitat degradation, coral bleaching, and unsustainable aquarium harvesting
HabitatsClear, current-swept coral reefs
Life span8 to 20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyAcanthuridae
- SpeciesParacanthurus hepatus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Sharp caudal spines can inflict deep, painful cuts; avoid touching or handling.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses razor-sharp, forward-facing caudal spines on either side of the tail base that can slash hands or predators.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for the bright yellow, wedge-shaped tail bordered by black, with a vibrant blue body.
- What to do
- Never touch or attempt to grab this fish; if handling is necessary, use a solid container rather than a net.
Responsible observation
- Observe from a distance: Watch them dart among branching corals where they seek shelter.
- Look for schooling behavior: Spot them in small groups feeding on zooplankton just above the reef crest.
Reef Companion (c) User:Amada44, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative (c) Juergen goevert, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Family Member Brian Gratwicke / CC BY 2.0 · cc-by
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