Species · GBIF taxon 2379869
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.
Reef DwellerVibrantHerbivore
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Filamentous Algae
- Turf Algae
- Macroalgae
Predators
- Moray Eels
- Groupers
- Reef Sharks
ThreatsCoral bleaching, habitat degradation, and unsustainable collection for the aquarium trade
HabitatsShallow, sunlit coral reefs, seaward reefs, and protected lagoons
Life spanUp to 30 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyAcanthuridae
- SpeciesZebrasoma flavescens
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Possesses a razor-sharp caudal spine that can inflict deep cuts; do not touch or corner.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses a modified scale near the tail base called a caudal spine, which is razor-sharp and can slice skin during defensive thrashing.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for the small, distinct white spot just before the tail fin, which houses the sharp barb.
- What to do
- Never attempt to touch, catch, or corner these fish; admire them from a safe distance of at least a few feet.
- What to notice
- Recognizable by their uniform, brilliant yellow coloration and active grazing on shallow sunlit reefs.
- Support conservation
- Support sustainable tourism and only purchase captive-bred individuals if keeping them in home aquariums.
Responsible observation
- 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.
Reef Companion (c) H. Krisp, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Close Relative Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) François Libert, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
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