Twotone tang

blackish from face to tail (juvenile fish)

Scientific name	Zebrasoma scopas
English name	Twotone tang
Japanese name	胡麻剥
Classification	Actinopterygii
Classification details	Perciformes Acanthuridae
Full length	~15cm.
Distribution	Pacific coral reefs.

Characteristics

A fish of the family Scrophulariidae with a triangular body. The face is a light yellowish brown, fading to a darker color towards the tail. Juveniles have vertical stripes. The eyes are black and the mouth is slightly protruding.

Ecology

Inhabits coral reefs and eats algae on the surface of coral and rocks. The swimmers are slow rather than agile.

Habitat

Ishigaki Island

I photographed a juvenile fish foraging near coral while diving. The silhouette was unique and interesting. It was poking coral with its slightly sharp proboscis.