Fin's Fish Guide
The Desjardin's sailfin tang (Zebrasoma desjardinii) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 40 cm.
Asia: Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Djibouti and others
Description
Desjardin's sailfin tang is a surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) from the Red Sea and western Indian Ocean. The species grows to about 40 cm and has a deep, disc-shaped body with tall, sail-like dorsal and anal fins and a pattern of grey and yellow stripes and spots. On each side of the tail base it carries a sharp, scalpel-like blade. As a reef-dweller it grazes weed and algae. The tail scalpel can cause deep cuts; otherwise the fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Desjardin's sailfin tang?
The Desjardin's sailfin tang has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold. Bears sharp spines, plates or strong jaws that can cause cuts or puncture wounds; handle with care.
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. Asia: Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Christmas I., Cocos Is. (Keel), Comoros, Djibouti and others
How big does the Desjardin's sailfin tang get?
The Desjardin's sailfin tang grows to a maximum of about 40 cm. On average the species is around 32 cm.
Is the Desjardin's sailfin tang dangerous to humans?
The Desjardin's sailfin tang can cause injury; handle it with care. Do not grab the fish by the tail: surgeonfishes carry sharp, scalpel-like bony plates on the tail base that can cause deep cuts. For a cut: clean, apply pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a sterile dressing; for a deep wound seek medical assessment and check tetanus status.
Is the Desjardin's sailfin tang edible?
Yes, the Desjardin's sailfin tang is commonly eaten.
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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.