Spotted Sawtail (Prionurus maculatus)
Fish in the family Acanthuridae. Moderate care. Reef Safe with Caution.
Quick facts
Appearance
The Spotted Sawtail is a compressed, oval-bodied tang with a dusky gray-brown coloration covered in light spots or markings. It features characteristic venomous spines along the base of the tail (caudal peduncle), which give the sawtail tangs their common name.
Diet and feeding
Zooplankton, small crustaceans, mollusks, marine worms, and small fishes in both wild and aquarium settings.
Difficulty and care for the Spotted 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, Hole-in-the-Head Disease, Columnaris Disease
Origin and habitat
Indo-Pacific region from the Red Sea to Hawaii and the Great Barrier Reef, typically found on coral reef slopes and drop-offs.
Log Spotted 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 Spotted Sawtail alongside everything else in your reef.
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