Yellow tang

Biology

Like all members of its family, the yellow tang has two sharp blades on each side of the caudal peduncle, which are projected for defence. It has a long snout with specialized teeth which are used to scrape algae from the surface of the corals. It is common to find this curious fish swimming alone or in small groups, right below the surge zone, in coral reefs.

Conservation

This tang plays a major role in its habitat! By feeding on algae and seaweed that grow on corals, they prevent it from overgrowing and killing corals.

Curiosities

At night, the bright yellow colour of this fish darkens, keeping it hidden in the ocean. During breeding season, spawning occurs in pairs or groups and a territorial male courts the female.