West Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang (Large)
Scientific Name: Zebrasoma desjardini
Temperament: Moderate
Aggression Level: Semi-aggressive
Coloration: Black, Blue, White, Yellow
Diet: Herbivore
Compatibility: Yes
Water Parameters: 72-78 gallons, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025
Size: 1′ 4″
Origin: Africa, Maldives, Sri Lanka
Family: Acanthuridae
Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
The Desjardini Sailfin Tang, also known as the Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang, Desjardin’s Sailfin Tang, or Red Sea Sailfin Tang, is dark to very light gray in color with light freckles on the nose and yellow freckles on the abdomen. The body has several distinct markings that vary slightly between individuals.
FAQ
What is the typical color pattern of the West Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang?
The fish has a dark to very light gray body with light freckles on the nose and yellow freckles on the abdomen, with distinct markings across the body.
What kind of diet does this tang require?
It is a herbivore and requires a diet rich in algae-based foods such as spirulina, nori, and algae wafers.
What are the ideal water conditions for this species?
Ideal conditions include a water temperature range, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, and specific gravity between 1.020 and 1.025.
Emily Martin –
This tang is vibrant and active in a 180-gallon tank. The coloration is striking with clear gray and yellow markings. It’s peaceful with other fish and eats algae regularly. Needs a well-maintained environment with stable water parameters.
Blake Carr –
The fish looks beautiful and is a great addition to a reef tank. It’s not overly aggressive and blends well with other tangs. Feeding it daily with algae sheets keeps it healthy and active.
Lillian Churchill –
After a few months, the Sailfin Tang has become a centerpiece of our tank. Its movement is graceful and it shows interest in the algae surfaces. Water parameters are stable, and it’s thriving in the larger tank.