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Gem Tang

Zebrasoma gemmatum

Gem Tang

Zebrasoma gemmatum
Other Common Names
Jewelled Tang, Spotted Tang
At the Aquarium
Connected Coasts
Other Common Names
Jewelled Tang, Spotted Tang

At the Aquarium

Connected Coasts

Appearance

Gem tangs are dark brown and speckled with small white spots. There are also spots on their yellow caudal fin. As a member of the genus Zebrasoma, its dorsal and anal fins are much more developed than those of other tangs and surgeonfishes.
Male and female gem tangs are similar in appearance.
Gem tangs can grow up to 18 cm.

Habitat

Lagoons, coral beds, outer reef slopes and rocky drop-offs at depths up to 60 m.

Diet

Various algae

Life History

Gem tangs reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm into the open water. Ocean currents carry the eggs and once the eggs hatch they enter a larval stage. Their larvae drift in the ocean currents, growing until they are eventually ready to go back to the bottom where they settle and become adults. Juveniles usually stay in shallow, sheltered water while adults occupy areas below 20 m. <
Gem tangs are territorial and nearly always live alone.

IUCN Status

Data Deficient

Ecosystem & Cultural Importance

Gem tangs are important in maintaining the balance of coral reef ecosystems by helping control the growth of algae. This improves and supports the health of corals.
Range
From Mauritius to Madagascar and Natal, South Africa. Also found in Mozambique.
On the Oregon Coast
Fun Facts
Like other tangs, the gem tang has a spine on each side of the base of its caudal fin. This spine is used to fend off predators, defend territory and display social dominance.

Citations & Other Resources

  • Myers, R., J.H. Choat, R. Abesamis, K.D. Clements, J. McIlwain, C. Nanola, L.A. Rocha, B. Russell & B. Stockwell. 2012. Zebrasoma gemmatum. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2012
  • Taquet, M., and A. Diringer. 2012. Fishes of the Indian Ocean and Red Sea. Quae, Versailles, France.
    • Back to All Animals

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    Since opening in 1992, the Oregon Coast Aquarium has been a premier attraction on Oregon’s central coast and an enduring advocate for the health of our ocean. For over three decades this 501(c)3 non-profit organization has supported marine wildlife and fostered environmental stewardship through its education programs, community partnerships, and rehabilitation efforts. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, the Oregon Coast Aquarium is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 aquariums in the U.S., providing visitors with opportunities to connect with 15,000 animals spanning 300 different species. The Oregon Coast Aquarium is located at 2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Rd., Newport, OR. Learn more about the Oregon Coast Aquarium and its vital work at aquarium.org, 541-867-3474. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for the latest updates.

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