Convict Tang

Habitat

A Convict tang from the Surgeonfish family may be found in shallow, low current waterways, tidepools and coral reefs. They are often observed in large schools, but some have been observed living solitary on occasion. The preference to travel in larger schools in combination with their disruptive body striping aids in protection for the convict tang against predation.

Reproduction

Tangs spawn in aggregations. There may be tens of thousands of fish assembling for the spawning season. Eggs hatch into clear pelagic larvae. It may take approximately 24 hours for the larvae to acclimate to their benthic surroundings. The juvenile will develop the characteristic striping as they mature.