Sailfin Tang

(Zebrasoma veliferum)

Zebrasoma Tangs should be added to aquariums with plenty of swim room and rockwork for grazing and hiding. Tank size should be considered before purchasing as the adult zebrasoma Tangs can become quite large. Also known as surgeon fish because of the sharp spine at the base of their tail. This "scalpel" is used for protection, handle carefully as it is very sharp. They are considered reef safe but may pick at small, mobile and sessile invertebrates if not well fed. Provide a varied diet of marine meaty and algae based foods. Zebrasoma Tangs have been known to be aggressive towards similarly shaped Tangs.

The Scopas Tang are also known as the Pacific Sailfin, Sail Fish or Ringed Tang. Commonly seen in the aquarium trade. The Scopas Tangs have very large dorsal and anal fins, varying sized yellow stripes with dark stripes on its head all against a light gray body color. They can grow to almost 16".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 180 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH

  • Care: CareModerateModerate CareEasyEasy
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietFlake FoodFlake Food DietLive FoodLive Food DietHerbivoreHerbivore DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightHighHigh