Sailfin tang

Biology

The sailfin tang is distinguished by its unusually large dorsal and anal fins, which are reminiscent of sails on a boat. It is the largest of its genus, and may grow to a maximum length of 40 centimetres. It has a sharp blade next to its caudal fin, which it uses to defend itself. However, unlike other surgeonfishes, this blade is not venomous.

Conservation

This species is caught for food in some areas. The majority of surgeonfishes are exclusively found on coral reef habitat, and of these, a great number are experiencing degradation of habitat quality.