Japanese Sawtail (Prionurus scalprum)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Not Reef Safe.
Quick facts
Appearance
A small tang with a grayish-brown body and distinctive sawtooth-edged spine blade on each side of the caudal peduncle (tail base). The body is laterally compressed and oval in shape with a terminal mouth typical of herbivorous tangs.
Diet and feeding
Feed high-quality marine algae-based foods, dried seaweed (nori), and herbivorous flakes. Supplement with vegetable matter and macroalgae. Should graze frequently throughout the day on natural algae growth in the tank.
Difficulty and care for the Japanese Sawtail
Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.
Common health issues
Marine ich, Fin Rot, Swim Bladder Disorder, Bacterial Infections, Parasitic Infestations
Origin and habitat
Western Pacific, from Japan and the Indo-Pacific region southward to the Philippines and Indonesia.
Log Japanese Sawtail in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Japanese Sawtail alongside everything else in your reef.
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