taken while diving in the Maldives with a waterproof camera; using a flashlight is mandatory in order to get the natural colors; ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Surgeonfish (or Tangs) are found throughout the world?s temperate and tropical oceans, and there are approximately 80 species. The body is basically flat, and oval in shape, with a small mouth for grazing on algae (although some feed on zooplankton). They get their name from highly modified scales that have evolved into weapon-like spines at the base of the tail. These spines are either fixed or mobile (like a flick knife) and there can be up to 6 per side, depending on the species. They are mainly used when the fish feels threatened over territorial disputes, but fishermen have often been slashed when removing them carelessly from nets.