Scientific Name: Zebrasoma xanthurum
Max. size: 22.0 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment: reef-associated; marine; depth range 0 - 20 m
Climate: tropical; 24 - 28°C
Distribution: Western Indian Ocean = Red Sea to the Persian Gulf; recorded from Maldives.
Biology: Often found in groups in coral-rich areas or on rocky bottoms. It small and numerous pharyngeal teeth suggest a diet that consists mainly of filamentous algae.
Aquarium Care: Feed a good herbivorous diet. This fish is the most hostile of the Zebrasoma genus. It should be the last fish introduced in a community tank, unless kept with other large hostile species. Grazes on filamentous microalgae and small fleshy macroalgaes.

Photo Courtesy of Charles Fiterman