The 🌊 Red Sea sailfin tang, scientifically known as Zebrasoma desjardinii, is a species of fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae, which includes surgeonfishes, unicornfishes, and tangs. This fish is commonly found in the 🌊 Indian Ocean, with its range extending from the eastern coast of Africa, including places like 🇿🇦 South Africa and the Middle East, to various islands across the 🌊 Indian Ocean such as 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka and parts of Southeast Asia. Interestingly, a recorded sighting in 🇺🇸 Florida is thought to have resulted from an aquarium release.
First described in 1836 by zoologist Edward Turner Bennett, this species was originally identified in 🇲🇺 Mauritius and later named in honor of French zoologist Julien Desjardins, who contributed significantly to the study of local fishes.
The 🌊 Red Sea sailfin tang is recognizable by its unique body shape; it features a high dorsal fin with 4 spines and 27 to 31 soft rays. It has a deep body, with a standard length that is 1.8 to 2 times its depth, and can grow up to 40 cm (16 in) in total length. This fish has a distinct coloring pattern with a grey body adorned with about 8 vertical dark grey bars, each with orange or yellow lines that become spots on the lower body. Its head has two dark brown bars, with one passing through the eye, and is covered with small yellow spots, which also appear on the dorsal and caudal fins.
The species thrives in depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters (3 ft 3 in to 98 ft 5 in), typically inhabiting lagoon and seaward reefs. While adults are commonly seen in pairs, juveniles are usually found alone in more sheltered reef areas. Their diet mainly consists of various algae and plankton, though they have also been observed feeding on jellyfish and comb jellies in the 🌊 Red Sea. Sometimes, during algal feeding sessions, they are accompanied by the mimic slingjaw wrasse.
Reproduction involves pair spawning, which is a common trait for its genus, but group spawning is generally more typical for the broader family. This fascinating fish, with its striking appearance and distinct behaviors, adds vibrancy to the reef ecosystems it inhabits.
Why it's threatened
Threat classification from the IUCN Red List.
