Recent sighting of Sailfin Tang in Florida serves as yet another reminder

by | Sep 6, 2012 | Advanced Aquarist | 0 comments


Recent sighting of Sailfin Tang in Florida serves as yet another reminder


This Pacific sailfin tang was spotted in Atlantic waters.

The 28cm (11 inch) non-indigenous specimen was spotted swimming at the north end of the Boynton Beach Reef (Southeast Florida).  The USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species website states the pathway for the fish’s entry into Florida was via “released aquarium,” although it can not be determined if the fish was intentionally introduced into Atlantic waters or washed out into sea from acts of nature such as hurricanes.

Hobbyist must never dispose of any aquarium life (including substrates and water) into natural waterways.  This goes for both fresh and saltwater aquariums.  Aquarium owners who live close to coastlines should implement safeguards against accidental release of aquarium life into local waters during natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or earthquakes.  Non-indigenous, invasive species such as Indo-Pacific Lionfish introduced and prolifically breeding in the Caribbean are wreaking havoc on local ecosystems.  Do your part in protecting our natural habitats from invasive species.

[via ReefCentral]

  • Leonard Ho

    I'm a passionate aquarist of over 30 years, a coral reef lover, and the blog editor for Advanced Aquarist. While aquarium gadgets interest me, it's really livestock (especially fish), artistry of aquariums, and "method behind the madness" processes that captivate my attention.

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