Yellow Tang
Zebrasoma flavescensAlso known as Lemon Sailfin, Yellow Sailfin Tang, Somber Surgeonfish
These vibrant, disc-shaped fish bring brilliant splashes of lemon-yellow to Indo-Pacific coral reefs, where they graze tirelessly on filamentous algae. By constantly cropping turf algae, they prevent it from suffocating delicate corals, playing a vital role in maintaining reef health. At night, their bright coloration temporarily fades to a dusky hue with a prominent horizontal white stripe, helping them blend into the shadows of their coral shelters.
- diet
- Herbivorous, feeding primarily on turf algae, filamentous algae, and marine macroalgae
- family
- Acanthuridae
- threats
- Coral bleaching, habitat degradation, and unsustainable collection for the aquarium trade
- life Span
- Up to 30 years
LC
Possesses a razor-sharp caudal spine that can inflict deep cuts; do not touch or corner.
Possesses a modified scale near the tail base called a caudal spine, which is razor-sharp and can slice skin during defensive thrashing.
Never attempt to touch, catch, or corner these fish; admire them from a safe distance of at least a few feet.Highly targeted by the marine aquarium trade, leading to localized population declines and strict harvesting regulations in regions like Hawaii.
Support sustainable tourism and only purchase captive-bred individuals if keeping them in home aquariums.- Maintain Distance: Give them space while snorkeling to observe their natural grazing behaviors without startling them.
- Look for the Spine: Spot the small white scalpel-like spine near the tail base, used for defense.
- Observe Night Colors: Look for them at dusk to see their bright yellow fade into a camouflaged pattern.