Sailfin tangs have compressed, disc-like bodies with flattened fins that they are able to rapidly open to increase their apparent size. They are pale in colour, with alternating dark and light grey vertical bars. Their face has small pale spots and their rear-end has narrow yellow stripes.
These tangs form pairs and inhabit coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. They scavengers, searching for fragments of algae and detritus.
Grows up to 80cm, but more common at about 40cm
Also known as a Red Sea sailfin tang, Indian Sailfin tang, Desjardin's sailfin tang or sailfin surgeonfish