Zebrasoma velifer

Datasheet

General Description

The Zebrasoma velifer, commonly known as the Sailfin tang, belongs to the Acanthuridae family. It is easily distinguishable by its sail-like fin that is displayed when under threat. Typically found in coral aquariums, this species is vibrant in color, relatively low-maintenance, and serves a beneficial purpose in tank ecosystems.

Aquarium Suitability

The Sailfin tang is suitable for most aquarium setups but demands a very large tank when fully grown, making it challenging to house in a typical home aquarium. It requires ample space for swimming and grazing on algae, necessitating a minimum tank size of 300 liters and an abundance of hiding spots, especially when first introduced.

Demands

With an average hardiness level, this species thrives in established tanks with sufficient algae growth on rocks and stones for grazing. It is recommended to supplement their diet with algae-rich foods such as seaweed or spirulina if natural algae reserves are insufficient.

Care and Hardiness

Known for their algae-consuming habits, Sailor fin tangs are peaceful tank inhabitants and rarely display aggression towards other fish or coral species. However, they may exhibit aggression towards similar Zebrasoma tangs, especially Z. flavescens. Care should be taken when handling these fish due to the sharp caudal spine they possess for defense.

Reef Suitability

Sailfin tangs are always reef-safe and are unlikely to cause disturbances in a reef tank environment. They play a vital role in maintaining the balance of algae growth in the tank without posing a threat to corals or invertebrates.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Zebrasoma velifer, ensure there is a stable hierarchy if multiple tang species are present. Provide ample swimming space, hiding spots, and a well-maintained environment with proper water parameters (pH 8.1-8.4, temperature 22.2-25.6°C, salinity 1.020-1.025, and KH 8-12).

Behaviour

These tangs spend most of their time swimming around the tank and browsing on algae-covered surfaces. Their sail-like fins may be extended during times of stress, indicating a defensive posture. They do best in peaceful environments with compatible tankmates.

Feeding and Diet

Sailfin tangs primarily feed on small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia in the wild. In captivity, they should be provided with a diet rich in macroalgae such as seaweed and microalgae like spirulina to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to the Western Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, particularly from Indonesia to the Hawaiian Islands, Sailfin tangs are found in a wide range of reef habitats. They are known to inhabit areas with abundant algae growth and warm waters. Captive reproduction of this species can be challenging due to their specific habitat requirements.