Care
The Sailfin Tang is known from lagoons and seaward reefs, from the lower surge zone to depths of 45m (148ft). Juvenile fish may be found in small aggregations sheltering amongst branching corals on shallow reef flats, whereas the adults are rather more territorial and tend to occur singly or in pairs. These beautiful fish possess fewer but larger pharyngeal teeth compared to other Zebrasoma species, and are frequently observed grazing on leafy macroalgae. This is a large and long-lived species, with specimens regularly reaching 25-30 years of age. A very spacious and well filtered aquarium with areas of decent current and a good level of oxygenation is requisite. Despite its eventual adult size, this is one of the more peaceable tangs. However, only one should be kept per tank, and it should not be housed with any similar species. The diet must contain a good proportion of vegetable matter in order to prevent head and lateral line erosion, and it should therefore only be added to mature aquaria where there is a good growth of algae on the rockwork. Indeed, it will even enjoy browsing on nuisance filamentous algae. As long as this fish is kept well fed, it should not pose any real problems in a reef set up. Occasional specimens have been known to nip at large polyp stony (LPS) corals, but this is not the norm. Provide plenty of hiding/sleeping places amongst the rockwork, with an open swimming space along the front of the aquarium. Juveniles of the species are very similar in appearance to young Indian Ocean Sailfin Tangs (Zebrasoma desjardinii). May also be seen on sale as the Pacific Sailfin Tang.
Feeding
It is important that these fish receive an appropriate diet consisting of a quality staple dried food in order to prevent Head & Lateral Line Erosion (HHLE) and fading of colour. Feed a varied diet in small amounts several times a day, or use foods that allow a period of grazing. Although this species will browse on algae within the aquarium, its diet should be supplemented with herbivore rations, green marine flake, Spirulina (blue-green algae) based foods, Nori (dried seaweed) etc. It will also take small meaty frozen foods such as Mysis, but be sure that it is receiving enough green food to. Adding a specially formulated vitamin supplement to any frozen foods will be beneficial.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium.
