Fin's Fish Guide
The Lemon sailfin (Zebrasoma flavescens) is a saltwater fish of the family Acanthuridae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The yellow tang is a strikingly bright-yellow surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae from the Pacific. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, uniformly bright-yellow body with a pointed snout; at night the colour fades to greyish with a pale stripe. It inhabits coral-rich parts of lagoon and seaward reefs. As a herbivore it grazes algae from the corals and rocks by day, helping to keep the reef healthy. On each side of the tail base it bears a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can give deep cuts; never grab the fish by the tail. It is a popular marine aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Lemon sailfin?
The Lemon sailfin has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Uniformly bright yellow; algae grazer with sharp, scalpel-like tail spines, a popular marine aquarium fish.
Where does the Lemon sailfin live?
The Lemon sailfin lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Pacific Ocean; coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs.
How big does the Lemon sailfin get?
The Lemon sailfin grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Lemon sailfin dangerous to humans?
No, the Lemon sailfin is harmless to humans. On each side of the tail base is a sharp, scalpel-like spine that can give deep cuts; never grab the fish by the tail. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care for a deep or infected wound.
Is the Lemon sailfin edible?
The Lemon sailfin is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Lemon sailfin?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Lemon sailfin is one of 12,519 species in the app.