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The Zebrasoma veliferum, commonly known as the Sailfin Tang or Sailfin Surgeonfish, is a striking and elegant species admired for its unique fin shape and vibrant patterns. Below is a detailed description:

Appearance:

• Coloration: The Sailfin Tang's base body colour is gray to yellowish-brown, adorned with vertical bands of light and dark shades. The bands are often accented with tiny, vibrant spots.
• Fins: The large, sail-like dorsal and anal fins are its most distinguishing feature, decorated with intricate stripes and patterns. These fins can extend significantly when the fish feels threatened or displays dominance.
• Size: This species can grow up to 15 inches (38 cm) in the wild, though individuals in captivity often remain slightly smaller.
• Shape: It has a disc-like body with a prominent, pointed snout.

Habitat:

• Natural Range: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, Red Sea, and Pacific Ocean.
• Preferred Environment: Typically inhabits lagoons and outer reef slopes, grazing on algae-covered rocks and coral structures.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: Due to its size and active swimming behaviour, it requires a large tank of at least 180 gallons.
• Diet: Herbivorous, primarily feeding on algae in the wild. In aquariums, it thrives on marine algae, seaweed sheets, spirulina, and high-quality herbivore pellets.
• Substrate: A mix of live rock and sandy substrate is ideal for grazing and exploring.
• Compatibility: Generally peaceful but may become territorial with other tangs or similarly shaped fish. It coexists well with other non-aggressive tankmates.
• Reef-Safe: Considered reef-safe, as it does not harm corals or larger invertebrates.

Behavior:

• Activity Level: A highly active swimmer, often seen gliding gracefully throughout the tank.
• Social Behavior: Peaceful when young but may assert dominance as it matures, particularly in smaller tanks or with conspecifics.

Special Notes:

• Space Needs: Its large size and territorial tendencies require a spacious, well-aquascaped tank.
• Care Level: Due to its size, dietary needs, and sensitivity to water quality, it is best suited for intermediate to advanced aquarists.

The Zebrasoma veliferum is a stunning centerpiece fish for large, well-maintained marine aquariums. Its impressive sail-like fins and grazing habits make it a visual delight and a valuable addition for controlling algae growth.

• Care level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Compatible: Yes
• Family: Zebrasoma 
• Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons 

• Size:
  Small 2" - 3"
  Medium 3" - 4"
  Large 4" - 5"