Yellowtail Surgeonfish

The yellowtail surgeonfish is a streamlined, mid-water reef dweller recognizable by its silvery body and bright yellow tail fin. It typically cruises in small groups along drop-offs and outer reefs, where strong currents bring plankton. Like other surgeonfish, it carries a sharp, venomous spine on each side of the tail base—a defensive weapon best admired from a respectful distance. These fish are herbivorous grazers, though they also pluck zooplankton from the water column.