The Sawtail Tang (Prionurus sp.) also known as the Sawtail Galapagos Tang, can be found among local reefs and rocky outcroppings in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. They have a grey body with two vertical, black stripes near their gills and a yellow caudal fin. They reach a maximum size of 16 inches and do well in tanks of at least 180 gallons. Turbulent water with high amounts of oxygen are ideal for this tang. Their diet should consist of omnivorous preparations, including mysis shrimp, brine, and nori seaweed. 

Sawtail Tang (Prionurus sp.) Care Guide

Sawtail Tang Habitat:

Sawtail Tangs are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the waters surrounding coral reefs. Replicating this natural habitat in your aquarium is essential for their well-being.

Reef Compatibility with the Sawtail Tang:

Sawtail Tangs are generally considered reef safe. They tend to be peaceful towards corals and invertebrates, making them a suitable addition to reef aquariums. However, like many tangs, they are herbivorous and may graze on algae, which could affect the growth of desirable coralline algae. Providing ample macroalgae for them to graze on can help prevent overgrazing of live corals.

Sawtail Tang Size and Lifespan:

Sawtail Tangs can grow to an average size of 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) in a well-maintained aquarium. With proper care, they can live for up to 10 to 15 years, making them a long-term commitment for marine enthusiasts.

Diet in Captivity for the Sawtail Tang:

In captivity, Sawtail Tangs are primarily herbivorous. Their diet should consist of a variety of marine algae and plant material. You can provide them with high-quality marine flakes, pellets, and frozen herbivore foods. Regularly offering marine algae sheets or live macroalgae is essential to replicate their natural diet.

Aquaculture and Availability of the Sawtail Tang:

Sawtail Tangs are not commonly available through aquaculture. Most specimens are collected from the wild. When acquiring Sawtail Tangs, choosing a reputable supplier like Saltwaterfish.com is essential to ensure the fish is responsibly collected and properly acclimated to aquarium life.

Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates for the Sawtail Tang:

Sawtail Tangs are generally peaceful and can coexist with various marine fish and invertebrates. However, it's essential to provide a sufficiently large tank with hiding spots and visual barriers to reduce the likelihood of territorial conflicts with other fish.

Sexual Dimorphism in the Sawtail Tang:

Sawtail Tangs do not exhibit significant sexual dimorphism. Both males and females share similar physical characteristics and coloration.

Juvenile to Adult Coloration Changes in the Sawtail Tang:

Juvenile Sawtail Tangs often display vibrant colors and striking patterns, which can become more subdued as they mature into adults. While juveniles can be especially captivating, the adult coloration is equally distinctive.

Temperament of the Sawtail Tang:

Sawtail Tangs are known for their peaceful temperament. They generally get along well with other fish in a community aquarium setting. However, as with many tangs, they may display territorial behavior. To minimize potential conflicts, providing plenty of swimming space and hiding spots is advisable.

Tank Requirements for the Sawtail Tang:

To ensure the well-being of your Sawtail Tang, it's essential to provide a tank of at least 150 gallons (approximately 570 liters). These active swimmers require ample space to thrive. Maintaining stable water conditions is crucial, including a pH level of 8.1 to 8.4, a salinity level of 1.020-1.025, and a temperature range of 74-82°F (23-28°C). Adequate water flow, a protein skimmer, and regular water changes are essential to maintain optimal water quality.

Common Names of the Sawtail Tang:

Sawtail Tang is also known by the common names White-Tailed Surgeonfish and Sawtail Surgeonfish due to its distinctive saw-like tail and white caudal fin.

Compatible Tank Mates With the Sawtail Tang:

When selecting tank mates for your Sawtail Tang, consider the following five species:

• Bicolor Blenny (Ecsenius bicolor)
• Flame Hawkfish (Neocirrhitus armatus)
• Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)
• Coral Beauty Angelfish (Centropyge bispinosa)
• Yellowtail Damselfish (Chrysiptera parasema)

Why Choose Sawtail Tang from Saltwaterfish.com:

Acquiring a Sawtail Tang from reputable suppliers like Saltwaterfish.com ensures the quality and health of your fish. Responsible collection practices and proper acclimation make Saltwaterfish.com a preferred choice for marine enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Sawtail Tang is a captivating and distinctive addition to your marine aquarium. By adhering to proper tank size, diet, and tank mate compatibility, you can enjoy the unique appearance of this species while maintaining a balanced and thriving aquatic environment.