Sohal Tang (Acanthurus sohal)

This fish, common to see in aquariums, can be found in the Western Indian Ocean from the Red Sea to the Persian Gulf. It makes its home near seaward edges of reefs exposed to surge and likes to feed on various kinds of algae, mainly Sargassum, and fine filamentous green algae.

Tangs are members of the Surgeonfish family, which consists of fish that are colorful, thin bodied, and usually have an oval shape. These fish have long continuous dorsal and anal fins and crescent tailfins. The scalpel at the base of their tailfin is very sharp and is used by the fish for protection from predators as well as a way of establishing itself with other fish. These fish are usually seen at reefs eating algae all day long.