Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma velifer)

The Sailfin Tang is one of the most visually dramatic fish in the hobby. Its oval body carries five vertical yellow stripes with intricate markings within each stripe, freckles across the nose, and a tail that transitions from bright yellow into blue highlights, but the real showstopper is what happens when it extends its fins. When its dorsal and anal fins are fully extended, this species can appear downright massive, effectively doubling its apparent size in an instant. This is a big, bold, personable tang that earns centrepiece status in any large system and brings serious algae management with it.

Why we love it

• One of the most dramatic fin displays of any fish in the hobby
• Hardy and relatively forgiving compared to other large Acanthurid tangs
• Enthusiastic, active grazer that makes a real dent in algae growth
• Bold, curious personality that quickly learns to recognize its keeper
• Reef safe and generally peaceful toward non-tang tankmates

Suggested parameters

• Temperature: 24 to 26°C (75 to 79°F)
• Salinity: 1.025 to 1.026 SG
• pH: 8.1 to 8.4
• Alkalinity: 8 to 10 dKH
• Calcium: 400 to 450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1250 to 1400 ppm
• Nitrate: Under 20 ppm
• Strong flow and high oxygenation recommended; this species is found on coral-rich, surge-prone reefs and thrives in oxygen-rich water with strong currents

Care and temperament

• Difficulty: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive (territorial toward conspecifics and similarly shaped tangs; generally peaceful toward other species)
• Reef safe: Yes, with the caveat that as with many algae-grazing species, it may occasionally nip at coral polyps as it grazes from rock to rock
• Minimum tank size: 180 gallons; the tank footprint should allow plenty of horizontal running room and the ability to turn around freely at either end when full sized
• At full sail extension these fish reach 15 inches, so swimming room must account for that

Diet

The Sailfin Tang is a dedicated herbivore and algae access is the foundation of its long-term health.

• Nori and dried seaweed sheets on a clip (daily is ideal)
• Spirulina-based pellets and flakes
• Frozen herbivore blends and mysis shrimp for variety
• Offering plenty of marine-based seaweed and algae strengthens the immune system, reduces aggression, and improves overall health
• Feed small amounts multiple times per day to replicate natural grazing behaviour; this species is a near-constant grazier in the wild

Compatibility and tankmates

• Peaceful and compatible with clownfish, angelfish, wrasses, gobies, and most reef community fish
• Aggressive toward other sailfin tangs and can fare poorly in confrontations with other tang species; one per system is strongly recommended
• If mixing with other tangs, introduce all individuals simultaneously in as large a system as possible
• Introduce the Sailfin Tang after other territorial species have already settled in to minimize conflict
• A tight-fitting lid is advised; active swimmers can jump

Health and acclimation notes

The Sailfin Tang is one of the hardier tang species and generally adapts well to aquarium life when conditions are right. Like all tangs it carries a thinner slime coat than many marine fish and is susceptible to marine ich and marine velvet, particularly during the stress of shipping and introduction. Quarantine before adding to a display system is strongly encouraged. A varied diet heavy in marine algae and seaweed supports immune function and helps keep this species looking its best long term.

What you are buying

• You will receive: 1 Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma velifer)
• Colour patterning and fin length develop further with age; juveniles show more yellow while adults take on deeper olive tones with paler striping

As with all tangs, slow acclimation is recommended and quarantine is strongly encouraged before introduction to your display.