Sailfin Tang

• ExerciseHigh

  A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceLarge tank

  Needs a large aquarium — several hundred liters.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–25 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Parasites

The Sailfin Tang comes from the Indo-Pacific and is among the largest aquarium tangs, reaching 30-40 cm in maturity. Its towering dorsal and anal fins are covered in a maze of vertical bands and fine speckling that shifts with mood. It is hardier than many tangs and relatively peaceful for its size. Given its adult dimensions, a 450-litre (120-gallon) minimum with a long footprint is required, at 24-26C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4. Feed a herbivore-heavy diet of nori, algae preparations, and vegetable matter, plus occasional mysis. It grazes nuisance algae well and is reef-safe. Provide abundant rockwork and open space; keep as the only large tang unless the aquarium is exceptionally big.

• How active is a Sailfin Tang?

  High. A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• How much maintenance does a Sailfin Tang need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Sailfin Tang need?

  Large tank. Needs a large aquarium — several hundred liters.

• Is a Sailfin Tang a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Sailfin Tang live?

  10–25 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Sailfin Tang?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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