with those of Stegastes damselfish. Juvenile blue tangs are aggressive in territory defense. They try to avoid stegastes, and are rarely chased by these damselfish. Relationship with humans While not under human threat, the Atlantic blue tang is caught for commercial fishing, but maintains little importance to Caribbean industry. It is also used, though rarely, as bait. It is also common in the aquarium trade. The fish is of low commercial value, giving off a pungent stench. Ciguatera poisoning may occur if the flesh is consumed. The adult fish's caudal spine is sharp, and is only out when the fish experiences excitement of some form. These fins can cut very deep into human skin and have been known to result in infections, mainly characterized by swelling and discoloration. Pain from such infections can last for long periods of time, sometimes for hours. Some species of the genus Acanthurus are even thought to possess poison glands on their caudal spines. References Further reading Humann, P. and N. Deloach. Reef Fish Identification: Florida, Caribbean, Bahamas. New World Publications Inc., Jacksonville. pp. 32–33. External links Acanthurus Fish of the Western Atlantic Fish of the Dominican Republic Fish of the Caribbean Fauna of Ascension Island Fish described in 1801