Species · GBIF taxon 5209217
Convict Tang
Acanthurus triostegusAlso known as Manini, Convict Surgeonfish, Convict Surgeon, Fiveband Surgeonfish
Convict tangs are highly social surgeonfish easily recognized by their creamy-yellow bodies marked with six vertical black bars resembling a prison uniform. They graze in large, coordinated schools that overwhelm the territorial defenses of damselfish to feed on benthic algae. These schools play a vital role in coral reef health by preventing algae from smothering the living coral.
Reef-dwellingSchoolingAlgae-eater
Licensed referencebrian.gratwicke / CC BY 2.0 · cc-by
- diet
- Benthic algae and marine detritus
- family
- Acanthuridae
- threats
- Habitat degradation, coral bleaching, and overfishing for the aquarium trade
- life Span
- 5 to 7 years
LC
Equipped with sharp, blade-like spines on the tail base; handle with extreme care if caught.
Possesses modified, razor-sharp scales called caudal spines on either side of the tail base that can inflict deep, painful cuts if the fish thrashes.
Never grab a live fish by the tail; use a soft net or thick gloves if handling is necessary.- Observe schooling behavior: Look for large groups moving in unison over shallow reef flats during high tide.
- Keep your distance: Avoid cornering them against rocks, as they may use their sharp tail spines defensively.
- Watch the substrate: Notice how they scrape algae off rocks, leaving clean patches behind.