The Desjardini Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma desjardinii), also known as the Desjardin’s sailfin tang or Indian sailfin tang, is a species of marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Acanthuridae. It is found in the Indian Ocean and is closely related to the Pacific Sailfin Tang (Zebrasoma velifer). It was previously considered a synonym of Z. velifer but is now recognized as a distinct species.

Physical Description

The Desjardini Sailfin Tang has a deep, laterally compressed body with a large sail-like dorsal fin. The overall coloration is greyish to brownish with alternating yellow and dark vertical bands on the body. Adults have a distinctive pattern of stripes and spots, while juveniles have a more contrasting pattern with yellow and black bands. The dorsal fin has 4-5 spines and 23-25 soft rays while the anal fin has 3 spines and 19-21 soft rays. This species reaches a maximum total length of 40 cm (15.7 in).

Distribution and Habitat

The Desjardini Sailfin Tang is found in the Indian Ocean from the Red Sea and East Africa to Indonesia and western Thailand. It inhabits shallow coral reefs and lagoons at depths between 2 and 30 meters.

Diet and Feeding

The Desjardini Sailfin Tang is herbivorous, grazing on benthic algae and filamentous algae. In captivity, it should be offered a varied diet including marine algae, spirulina, and high-quality vegetable-based preparations.

Aquarium Care

The Desjardini Sailfin Tang requires a well-established aquarium of at least 125 gallons with abundant live rock for grazing. It is semi-aggressive and may display territorial behavior toward other tangs. Generally considered reef-safe.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.