Latin name

Paracanthurus hepatus

Other names

Regal tang, palette surgeonfish, blue tang.

Identification

The body is laterally compressed and ovoid in shape. This species is characterised by long dorsal and anal fins and a steeply sloping forehead. Large eyes provide excellent orientation in dark water. Anterolateral glandular groove containing a venomous gland.

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines: 9; Dorsal soft rays: 19-20; Anal spines: 3; anal soft rays: 18-19.

Fish colouring

The body colour is dark blue with a prominent black pattern, the caudal fin is yellow.

Distribution

Widespread in the Indo-Pacific from East Africa to Japan and Samoa.

Habitat

Bentopelagic. Fish prefer to live on the outer slopes of coral reefs at depths of up to 40m between corals and in rock crevices.

Size

Body length ranges from 15 to 30 cm. Males are slightly larger than females.

Behavior

Fry live in flocks, adult fish live in pairs or singly. Life expectancy is 20 years.

Food and feeding habits

It feeds on both plankton and algae, which distinguishes it from most Acanthuridae.

Reproduction

Puberty begins at the age of two. 

Fishing

No commercial value.

Relationship with a person

Popular aquarium fish. Poisonous.