Scietific Name:
Zebrasoma rostratum (Gunther 1875)
Other Common Names:
Black Tang, Black Longnose Sailfin, Black Sailfin, Black Surgeonfish, Black Longnose Surgeonfish.
Distribution:
Restricted to certain areas of the South Pacific, such as Palmyra (we personally dove there and saw them), and other island chains such as the Line (popularly collected on Christmas Island), Marquesas, Society, and Tuamoto out to the Pitcairn Group (Ducie Island), as well as Cook Island, America Samoa, and undoubtedly other islands in these regions.
Identification:
The Black Longnose Tang is quite distinctive with its solid black body, black eyes, long snout, broad sail-like fins, and white razor-like spines located on both sides of the caudal peduncle. This fish is somewhat similar to the
Zebrasoma scopas (Brown Tang) or
flavescens (Yellow Tang), but just a darker, longer-snouted version.
Maximum Size:
To 10".
Characteristics & Compatiability:
Because of its rarity in distribution and collection, it is a very expensive fish ranging in price anywhere from $250.00 up to 350.00+, which makes it a highly prized fish by an aquarist that can afford one. Otherwise, it has the same basic characteristics as most other Tangs and Surgeonfishes. Refer to our
Tang & Surgeonfish Family Profile.
Diet & Feeding:
This surgeonfish is a herbivore and should be fed forms of algae (seaweed), supplemented with protein sources such as brine shrimp or other meaty foods, twice daily.
Minimum Tank Size:
Due to the size to which this fish will reach as an adult, a 75 gallon tank is recommended.
Reef Tank Suitable?:
Yes.
Guide Notes:
We give the Black Longnose Tang a
** (Two Star)
Fish Care Rating Level.
