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Zebrasoma Veliferum
The Sailfin Tang, scientifically known as Zebrasoma veliferum, is an awe-inspiring and highly sought-after fish species that belongs to the Acanthuridae family. This marine beauty is admired for its vibrant colors, majestic sail-like dorsal fin, and graceful swimming behavior.
Originating from the Indo-Pacific region, particularly found in the coral reefs of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, the Sailfin Tang displays a striking combination of yellow, blue, and black hues. Its body is elongated and laterally compressed, with a distinctive sail-like dorsal fin that can be raised or lowered depending on its mood or environmental conditions.
This species is relatively larger in size compared to other tangs, reaching an average length of around 12-16 inches (30-40 cm) when fully grown. Its body is predominantly yellow, with a vibrant blue marking on its face, and a black vertical stripe running along its side.
The Sailfin Tang is known for its active and agile swimming behavior, gracefully gliding through the water column. It requires ample swimming space and a well-established reef or marine aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and live rock formations to mimic its natural habitat.
When it comes to feeding, the Sailfin Tang is primarily herbivorous, feeding on various types of algae and seaweed in the wild. In a home aquarium, it should be provided with a varied diet consisting of high-quality marine-based foods, such as algae sheets, spirulina flakes, and other herbivore pellets or flakes. Supplementing their diet with fresh vegetables, like blanched spinach or seaweed, can also be beneficial for their overall health and well-being.
Providing optimal water conditions is crucial for the well-being of the Sailfin Tang. They prefer a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters, including a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C) and a pH level of 8.1-8.4. Regular water changes and the use of a good filtration system are essential to maintain water quality.
While the Sailfin Tang is generally peaceful, it may exhibit territorial behavior towards other tangs or similar-looking species. It is recommended to introduce them to the aquarium as the last addition to minimize aggression. Keeping only one Sailfin Tang per aquarium is usually advised, unless you have a very large tank with ample swimming and territorial space.
Overall, the Sailfin Tang is a captivating and highly desirable addition to any reef or marine aquarium. Its vibrant colors, majestic sail-like dorsal fin, and graceful swimming behavior make it a stunning centerpiece and a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts. With proper care, a suitable environment, and a well-balanced diet, the Sailfin Tang can thrive and become a mesmerizing addition to your aquatic display, adding beauty and elegance to your underwater world.
Use caution when housing with other Tangs or Surgeonfish. Similar shaped Tangs can be very aggressive towards each other. Although Tangs will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the aquarium, it is important that they are offered plenty of marine based seaweed and algae.
It is well known that tangs have a penchant for Marine Ich and other diseases due to their lack of slime coating. We highly encourage quarantining all fish, but especially Surgeon Fish. We do our best to quarantine all fish at Reef Chasers but there can be absolutely no guarantees.
Tang's can typically get along if they are not the same species and/or ample living space is provided given they are introduced at the appropriate size & time.
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