Fin's Fish Guide
The Desjardin's sailfin tang (Zebrasoma velifer) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Description
The sailfin tang is a surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, disc-shaped body with very tall dorsal and anal fins that can be raised like a sail, and a pattern of alternating light and dark vertical bars. It lives on lagoon and seaward reefs, from the surge zone to at least 30 metres. As a herbivore it grazes algae from the reef. On each side of the tail base it bears a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can cause cuts; handle the fish with care.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Desjardin's sailfin tang?
The Desjardin's sailfin tang has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Very high, sail-shaped dorsal and anal fins and a sharp small scalpel spine at the base of the tail.
Where does the Desjardin's sailfin tang live?
The Desjardin's sailfin tang lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; lagoon and seaward coral reefs.
How big does the Desjardin's sailfin tang get?
The Desjardin's sailfin tang grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Desjardin's sailfin tang dangerous to humans?
No, the Desjardin's sailfin tang is harmless to humans. On each side of the tail base is a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can cause deep cuts; handle the fish with care. Clean the wound and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Desjardin's sailfin tang edible?
The Desjardin's sailfin tang is rarely eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Desjardin's sailfin tang?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Desjardin's sailfin tang is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Zebrasoma
More from the family Acanthuridae
Want the complete picture on the Desjardin's sailfin tang?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Desjardin's sailfin tang is one of 12,519 species in the app.