tangs

Tangs, commonly known as surgeonfishes, are a group of marine fishes in the family Acanthuridae. They are found in tropical and subtropical oceans, with the greatest diversity in the Indo-Pacific. Tangs typically inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas, where they graze on algae and biofilm. They range in size by species and are often noted for bright, variable coloration, a compressed body shape, and a scalpel-like spine on each side of the caudal peduncle used for defense. Notable examples include the blue tang (Paracanthurus hepatus), the yellow tang (Zebrasoma flavescens), and the powder-blue tang (Acanthurus leucosternon). Tangs are usually diurnal and can form schools, though some species are territorial.

Ecology and human use: Tangs play a role in reef ecology by controlling algal growth, which can influence coral health. They are a popular subject in the marine aquarium trade, though many species require large, stable tanks and careful care; overcollection and habitat degradation can impact wild populations. In the wild, behavior varies by species and environment, with some individuals forming loose aggregations and others defending feeding territories.

Other uses and senses: Tang can also refer to the tang, the metal portion of a knife or sword blade that extends into the handle and provides structural support. Tang construction includes full tang, partial tang, hidden tang, and rat-tail tang, made from various steel alloys.

Tang Dynasty: The Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) was a major period in Chinese history, renowned for cultural and political achievements, urban prosperity, and literary and artistic flourishing. In historical contexts, “Tangs” may refer to people or artifacts associated with this era.