Tang Indonesian Sawtail - Wild MED

The Indonesian Sawtail Tang is a greyish brown colour. Its tailfin stands out as it is a green or yellow colour. Dorsal and anal fins are similar to the body colour, hence its name. This is a large species which can grow up to 12 inches (30.5 centimetres) in length.

Little is known about this species breeding habits. Generally, Tangs are gonochoristic, but it is not always easy to determine sexes. During courting, the male will perform a dance for the female. When the female is enticed to spawn, the pair ascend to the surface and release their gametes.

The Indonesian Sawtail is distributed across the Western Pacific. Locations include Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea. They inhabit shallow reefs and rocky areas between depths of 5-40 metres.

Tank Recommendations for the Indonesian Sawtail Tang

Indonesian Sawtails need a tank capacity of at least 75 gallons (284 litres).

Caution is advised if housing this species in a reef tank as they will consume small crustaceans. They are probably better suited to a fish only tank.

Water needs to have high oxygen saturation and turbulent movement. This fish can be jumpy, so a secure lid is advisable.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Indonesian Sawtail Tangs are semi-aggressive. They may show aggression but usually only to other Tangs.

Usually Compatible

Suitable companions include Basslets, Angelfish, Gobies, Jawfish, Clownfish, and Squirrelfish.

Sometime Compatible

Caution is advised with other Tangs. Triggerfish, Rabbitfish, Batfish, Sharks, and Rays may also need monitoring.

Rarely Compatible

Slow movers such as Pipefish and Seahorses are unsuitable for cohabiting.

Feeding your Indonesian Sawtail Tang

Indonesian Sawtail Tangs are herbivores, but they will consume meaty foods. The majority of their diet should contain algae material and seaweed. This can be supplemented with crustaceans, food flakes, and pellets. They should be fed several times per day.