Facts: The Achilles Tang

The Achilles tang is a tropical surgeonfish that can be easily recognized by the bright orange patch at the base of its tail. It is named after the Greek warrior Achilles. The body is bluish black. The tail fin has a white edged orange bar. They are common along rocky shores in and around the surge zone in the western Pacific. They have two forward pointing spines, one on each side at the base of the tail. These blades can be used in defense. Each blade fits into a slot, but they can be exposed when the fish flexes its tail. The tang's highly compressed body has a small mouth with flexible comb-like teeth used to graze on algae. They feed on algae that is growing on hard surfaces. They play an important role in coral reef ecosystems by preventing algae from overgrowing on slow growing corals. Achilles tangs can be aggressive. They defend their territories against other algae eating surgeonfish. When irritated, the body takes on a reddish glow. Sometimes a white patch also develops on the chest and a white ring around the eye. They mainly propel themselves with wing-like beads of their pectoral fins. They remain within relatively small areas of the reef. Sometimes they swim in loose groups. They spawn in groups, producing small eggs that drift in the water column. Larvae are planktonic. Juvenile Achilles tangs lack the orange spot. Juveniles often shelter in beds of finger coral. They grow around 10 in long. For more marine facts, click the SUBSCRIBE button!!