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
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Filamentous algae
- Blue-green algae
- Diatoms
Predators
- Groupers
- Moray eels
- Snappers
ThreatsHabitat degradation, coral bleaching, and overfishing for the aquarium trade
HabitatsShallow coral reefs, rocky shores, tide pools, and lagoons
Life span5 to 7 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyAcanthuridae
- SpeciesAcanthurus triostegus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Equipped with sharp, blade-like spines on the tail base; handle with extreme care if caught.
- Why it is dangerous
- 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.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for the six vertical black stripes on a pale yellow body and a small, sharp spine tucked near the tail base.
- What to do
- Never grab a live fish by the tail; use a soft net or thick gloves if handling is necessary.
Responsible observation
- 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.
Frequent Companion (c) User:Amada44, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Image unavailableCompetitor 
Close Relative (c) Jean, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-byClose Relative
Help improve the field guideSomething wrong?
Checking your Fauna account…Report a name, category, or profile issue for review.