Yellowtail tang

Biology

This tang is completely purple except for the caudal fin which is bright yellow. Unlike other surgeonfish species, the two sharp spines on the caudal peduncle are not white. However they have the same function of protection and defence. This fish has an interesting daily routine: solitary or in pairs, it feeds during the day. At sunset it moves to crevices and coral colonies where it finds shelter to sleep.

Conservation

Like other surgeonfish, the yellowtail tang takes part in the maintenance of the habitat because it feeds on algae and seaweeds that overgrow and suffocate corals.

Curiosities

It has pharyngeal teeth that help it to feed on filamentous algae.