Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
An attractive species that controls undesirable algae. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
This handsome species is one of the best choices for controlling undesirable algae. An some individuals will even eat bubble algae (Valonia). It will also browse on desirable macroalgae and may occasionally nip (and even eat) the tissue of hard corals (especially large-polyped stony coral species) and low-growing soft corals.
The Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang, Zebrasoma veliferum, is a similar species from the Red Sea and the coast of Africa to the eastern reaches of the Indian Ocean. It is identical in its behavior and care requirements.
Family: Acanthuridae
Other common name(s):
- Desjardin's Sailfin Tang
Native range:
Maximum length: 40 cm (16 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 513 L (136 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Feeding
Feed a mixed diet, the bulk of which should consist of vegetable matter. Give frozen foods that contain the blue-green algae Spirulina, slices of zucchini, broccoli, and dried algae. Vegetable matter should be introduced daily in an aquarium where algae is not present, and frozen foods should also be presented once or twice a day.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
It is the least aggressive member of the Zebrasoma genus, although it may behave aggressively toward members of its own kind.
[edit] Notes
The related Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma veliferum) is similar in behavior and husbandry.
| Common name | Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang +, and Desjardin's Sailfin Tang + |
| Family | Acanthuridae + |
| Genus | Zebrasoma + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum length | 16 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 136 gal + |
| Native range | Red Sea +, South Africa +, India +, Java +, and Cocos-Keeling Islands + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes + |
| Specific name | desjardinii + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |