Blue tangs help keep algae populations under control, which prevents the overgrowth and suffocation of corals. Increases in algal density have greatly increased blue tang population size. Most blue tangs move within single reef habitats but they may also live on wider ranges around the reef.

Juveniles graze algae and pick molted skin and parasites from green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in cleaning stations with surgeonfish (Acanthurus chirurgus) and sergeant majors (Abudefduf vaigiensis).

Mutualist Species:

• surgeonfish (Acanthurus chirurgus)
• sergeant majors (Abudefduf vaigiensis)
• green turtles (Chelonia mydas)