The Sailfin Tang Desjardini (Zebrasoma desjardinii), also known as the Red Sea Sailfin Tang, is an extremely popular marine fish among aquarists. Native to the Red Sea and the waters of the Indian Ocean, this fish is famous for its stunning appearance and peaceful behavior, making it an excellent addition to large aquariums. Its appeal lies in its extended dorsal fins, distinctive horizontal stripes, and its ability to change color depending on its environment and mood.
Dive into the fascinating world of marine life as we embark on a journey to discover the captivating beauty of the Sailfin Tang Desjardini or Desjardini Sailfin Tang. This remarkable creature, with its vibrant colors and impressive fins, is truly a jewel of the reef. We will explore its habitat, diet, care, compatibility, and the diseases that affect this beautiful marine fish.
Characteristics of the Sailfin Tang Desjardini
Taxonomy
- Domain: Eukaryota
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Actinopterygii
- Order: Perciformes
- Family: Acanthuridae
- Genus: Zebrasoma
- Species: Zebrasoma desjardinii (Bennett, 1836)
- Synonym: Acanthurus desjardinii (Bennett, 1836)
- Common names in Spanish: Pez cirujano de aleta de vela Desjardini, pez cirujano de Desjardini, Cirujano vela del Índico, pez cirujano vela de Desjardini, Navajón velero
- Common names in English: Sailfin Tang Desjardini, Desjardini Sailfin Tang, Indian Ocean Sailfin Tang, Desjardin’s Sailfin Tang, Red Sea Sailfin Tang, or Indian sailfin surgeonfish
Etymology: Zebrasoma: Derived from Zebra = African horse + Greek, soma = body; referring to the stripes.
Zebrasoma desjardinii is exclusive to the Indian Ocean (FAO, ?); however, it is often confused with Z. veliferum from the Pacific. On the other hand, the sailfin surgeonfish is considered “Moderately vulnerable” according to the CITES report (Baillargeon y Rhyn, 2024).
Physical Characteristics
The Sailfin Tang Desjardini can grow up to 40 cm in the wild, although in captivity they are usually smaller. It has an oval body with large dorsal and anal fins that, when fully extended, give it a striking, sail-like appearance, hence the name “Sailfin.”
One of the most distinctive features of the Desjardini Sailfin Tang is its striking pattern of vertical stripes that adorn its body. These bold lines of color, which can range from deep blues and purples to vibrant yellows and oranges, further accentuate its body.
The fish’s body is further accentuated by a prominent and elongated dorsal fin that can reach up to 50% of its total length, giving it a truly majestic and imposing appearance.
According to the FAO, the distinguishing characteristics of this fish can be grouped as follows:
- Distinctive features: Dorsal fin with 4 spines and 27-31 rays. Anal fin with 3 spines and 22-24 rays. Pectoral fin rays: 15-17. Body depth 1.8-2.0 in standard length. Very elevated dorsal and anal fins. No bristles anterior to the caudal spine.
- Color: A pattern of dark bars, the two most prominent on the head (dark in dark fish), yellow vertical lines on the upper body, which divide into spots below, and small whitish spots on the head and chest. Juveniles have yellow and white bars, except for the black ones on the back and two on the head.
Natural Habitat and Distribution of the Desjardini Sailfin Tang
The Desjardini Sailfin Tang is primarily found in the warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean region: Eastern Africa and the Red Sea to the Andaman Sea (Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Myanmar, and Thailand), Western Sumatra, and rarely on Christmas Island. These fish thrive in the vibrant and diverse coral reef ecosystems that abound in this part of the world, where they can find abundant food sources and shelter.
Generally, the Desjardini Sailfin Tang is found at depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters, although it is also known to inhabit shallower waters. They prefer to reside in areas with a high concentration of live coral, as this provides them with the necessary protection and hiding spots they need to survive and thrive. The natural diet of these fish consists mainly of benthic algae and other plant-based materials, which they graze on within the intricate structures of the reef.
By consuming large amounts of benthic algae, the Desjardini Sailfin Tang helps ensure that coral reefs receive the sunlight and nutrients they need to flourish. This, in turn, creates a more diverse and vibrant ecosystem, as healthy coral provides shelter and feeding grounds for a wide variety of other marine species, including invertebrates, crustaceans, and smaller fish.
Care of the Sailfin Tang Desjardini
The Sailfin Tang Desjardini is relatively hardy but requires a well-maintained environment to thrive. In their natural habitat, these fish have been reported to live up to 30 years; however, in captivity, they only live for 10 years. To keep them in optimal condition, it is essential to replicate their natural habitat as closely as possible.
Tank Requirements
The Sailfin Tang Desjardini needs a large tank of at least 800 liters, though a larger volume is preferable for their long-term well-being. Since it is an active fish, ample swimming space is crucial, making it unsuitable for domestic aquariums.
Ensure that the aquarium is well-established, with abundant live rock offering hiding spots and promoting algae growth, their main food source in the wild.
Water Parameters
Maintaining water quality is fundamental. The ideal parameters are presented in Table 01. Regular water changes and monitoring nitrate and phosphate levels are important, as the Sailfin Tang Desjardini is sensitive to drastic changes in water chemistry.
Table 01. Water quality parameters for keeping the Sailfin Tang Desjardini.
| Parameter | Range |
| Volume | 800 liters per specimen. |
| Water Temperature | 24°C to 28°C |
| Water pH | 8.1 to 8.4 |
| Specific Gravity (Salinity) | 1.020 to 1.025 |
| Nitrate | Less than 50 mg/L |
| Lighting | 150 lx |
| Water Changes per Month | 20 to 30% of the volume |
Lighting has a significant effect on the feeding rate and behavior of the Sailfin Tang Desjardini. In its natural habitat, the lighting is about 150 lx. Therefore, it is recommended to maintain the lighting within this range to provide optimal conditions for the fish.
Feeding the Sailfin Tang Desjardini
Feeding the Sailfin Tang Desjardini can be challenging as it requires a varied diet of algae, seaweed, and other plant-based materials. Providing a diverse range of food sources, including live and frozen options, is essential to ensure the fish’s health and well-being.
The Sailfin Tang Desjardini’s diet is another crucial aspect of its care. In its natural habitat, it primarily feeds on algae, which helps maintain a healthy reef ecosystem. Knoester et al., (2023) highlight that Zebrasoma desjardinii feeds on the macroalgae Sargassum ilicifolium on the coral reefs of Kenya.
However, Bos et al., (2017) report that specimens of Zebrasoma desjardinii were found feeding on ctenophores and the moon jellyfish Aurelia aurita (Scyphozoa), suggesting that the trophic role of this fish should be reevaluated.
Captive Diet
To replicate its natural diet, offer a variety of foods, including seaweed (nori), spirulina, and fresh vegetables like spinach and romaine lettuce. It can also be supplemented with herbivore-prepared foods that contain high-quality marine ingredients. It is recommended to feed the Sailfin Tang Desjardini several times a day in small amounts, ensuring it receives a balanced diet to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
An important aspect to consider during feeding is lighting; according to Alwany´s (2008) research, fish show low feeding rates when lighting is low (50 lx), and this increases when lighting is high (300 lx).
Nutritional Supplements
Vitamin supplements can be beneficial in boosting the immune system and preventing common diseases. Additionally, including omega-3 fatty acids in its diet can enhance its coloration and vitality.
Reproduction
To date, there is no information that accredits the successful captive breeding of the Sailfin Tang Desjardini. It is known that this fish exhibits sexual dimorphism, where males are larger than females.
The Desjardini Sailfin Tang is oviparous and spawns in open waters according to the periodicity of the lunar cycle. The larvae of the Sailfin Tang Desjardini measure an average of 21.6 mm (Durville et al., 2003).
Behavior and compatibility of the Desjardini Sailfin Tang
In addition to its captivating physical attributes, the Sailfin Tang Desjardini is also known for its unique behavioral patterns. These fish often swim in small groups or schools, often very close to the intricate reef structures. They are relatively peaceful and docile, often coexisting harmoniously with other reef inhabitants.
However, Alwany (2008) reported that Z. desjardinii exhibits low aggressive behavior under low light intensity (50 lx) and, conversely, high aggressive behavior under high light intensity (300 lx).
Likewise, when the Desjardini Sailfin Tang feels threatened or during territorial disputes, it can become quite aggressive, using its sharp teeth and powerful fins to defend its territory and protect its relatives.
It is recommended to keep it with other non-aggressive fish and avoid introducing it into tanks with other Tangs of similar size unless the tank is large enough for each to have its own territory.
Common Diseases in the Sailfin Tang Desjardini
Although the Sailfin Tang Desjardini is a robust fish, it is not exempt from diseases. It is susceptible to common marine fish diseases such as Ich (white spot disease) and Marine Velvet.
Identification and Treatment of Ich
Ich is caused by the parasite Cryptocaryon irritans, an obligate ciliated protozoan parasite of wild and cultured marine fish, which manifests as small white spots on the fish’s body and fins. To treat this disease, it is recommended to use a freshwater bath as an initial treatment and then transfer the fish to a quarantine tank.
Copper treatment is effective but must be administered carefully to avoid toxicity. Cardoso et al., (2019) report that Zebrasoma desjardinii is sensitive to doses higher than 0.3 mg L-1.
Marine Velvet and Its Treatment
Marine Velvet, also known as “velvet disease,” is a more severe condition than Ich, caused by the parasite Amyloodinium ocellatum. Symptoms include a golden or velvety layer on the fish’s body, rapid breathing, and loss of appetite. Treatment requires a quarantine tank and the administration of copper-based medications, along with increased water oxygenation.
Lateral Line Disease
Fish of the genus Zebrasoma are prone to developing Lateral Line Disease (HLLD), characterized by non-bloody skin lesions on the head and along the lateral line (Egli, 2018).
Internal Parasites
Hassan et al., (2019) found that Flagellotrema convolutum parasitizes the intestines of Zebrasoma desjardinii in specimens captured in the Red Sea off Egypt.
Disease Prevention
Prevention is always the best strategy. Amaral et al., (2018) revealed significant changes in microbial diversity, relative abundance, and the composition of potential pathogens (e.g., Vibrio and Shewanella spp.) associated with Zebrasoma desjardinii at three sampling points along the U.S. stretch of an international marine ornamental fish supply chain.
Thus, maintaining good water quality, providing a varied and nutritious diet, and performing quarantines before introducing new fish are key measures to minimize the risk of disease.
Conclusion
The Sailfin Tang Desjardini is a gem in any marine aquarium, not only because of its impressive appearance but also due to its interesting behavior. However, keeping it requires a commitment to its care, from water quality to a proper diet and disease prevention. Compared to other Tangs, the Sailfin Tang Desjardini is a robust and rewarding option for experienced aquarists who can provide the space and attention it needs to thrive.
References
Alwany, M. A. (2008). Behavioural responses towards different light intensities of two Red Sea surgeonfishes. Egyptian J. Exp. Biol.(Zool.), 4, 199-204.
Amaral-Zettler, L.A.; Schmidt, V.; Smith, K.F. Microbial Community and Potential Pathogen Shifts Along an Ornamental Fish Supply Chain. Microorganisms 2018, 6, 91. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms6030091
Baillargeon Gabrielle and Andrew Rhyn. 2024. Report on using the Productivity-Susceptibility Analysis to Estimate Vulnerability of Marine Aquarium Fish: Potential Tool to Identify Species in Need of Further Assessment. CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES OF WILD FAUNA AND FLORA (CITES). Thirty-third meeting of the Animals Committee Geneva (Switzerland), 12 – 19 July 2024. 19 p.
Bos, A.R., Cruz-Rivera, E. & Sanad, A.M. Herbivorous fishes Siganus rivulatus (Siganidae) and Zebrasoma desjardinii (Acanthuridae) feed on Ctenophora and Scyphozoa in the Red Sea. Mar Biodiv 47, 243–246 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12526-016-0454-9
Cardoso, P. H. M., Soares, H. S., Martins, M. L., & Balian, S. D. C. (2019). Cryptocaryon irritans, a ciliate parasite of an ornamental reef fish yellowtail tang Zebrasoma xanthurum. Revista Brasileira de Parasitologia Veterinária, 28(4), 750-753.
Durville, P., Bosc, P., Galzin, R., & Conand, C. (2003). Aquacultural suitability of post-larval coral reef fish. SPC Live Reef Fish Information Bulletin, 11, 18-30.
Egli Jose. 2018. Los peces cirujano del género Zebrasoma. Reef-Marine Aquarium Magazine No 05.
Hassan, S. Yasser FM Karar, Charles K. Blend, Refaat MA Khalifa, Hemely Abdel. (2019). Re-examination of the phylogenetic relationships within the Gyliauchenidae Fukui, 1929 (Digenea) based on morphological and molecular evidence with a proposal for Paragyliaucheninae n. subfam. and a description of Flagellotrema convolutum Ozaki, 1936. Syst Parasitol, 96, 527-552.
Knoester, E. G., Plug, V. E., Murk, A. J., Sande, S. O., & Osinga, R. (2023). Fisheries restrictions and their cascading effects on herbivore abundance and macroalgae removal at Kenyan coral reefs. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology, 559, 151850. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jembe.2022.151850
