English Name: Desjardin’s sailfin tang
Family: ACANTHURIDAE
Local Name: Dhunfaiy mas
Order: Perèiformes
Size: Max. 40 cm
Specimen: MRS/0089/86
Distinctive Characters: Dorsal fin with 4 spines and 27-31 rays. Anal fin with 3 spines and 22-24 rays. Pectoral rays 15-17. Body depth 1.8-2.0 in standard length. Dorsal and anal fins strongly elevated. No bristles on anterior to caudal spine.
Colour: A pattern of dark bars, the two most prominent on head (obscure on dark fish), yellow vertical lines on upper body, breaking into spots below, and small whitish spots on head and chest. Juveniles with yellow and white bars except for black ones posteriorly and two on head.
Habitat and Biology: Occurs in coral reefs and rocky bottoms, generally in depths of less than 20 m. Often seen in pairs roaming on reefs and lagoons. Feeds on benthic algae. Distribution: Indian Ocean.
Remarks: Zehrasoma desjardinii is unique to Indian Ocean. This species is very closely related to Z. veliferum of the Pacific. Some authors consider both as the same species. Of interest to aquarists.