Climate change is predicted to increase both sea surface temperatures, as well as the frequency and severity of localized heating events, a phenomenon which may threaten the biodiversity, integrity and function of tropical coral reef ecosystems. This study determined the temperature preference and aerobic scope for a Hawaiian surgeonfish, the yellow tang (Zebrasoma flavescens), acclimated to two temperatures: 27°C, an average summer sea surface temperature (SST) in Hawaii, and 31°C, an elevated SST. Thermal preference of individuals from both groups were tested over a 24-hour period in an annular preference chamber with a gradient from 24 to 34°C. Additionally, oxygen consumption rates were measured in a swimming respirometer to determine their standard and maximum metabolic rates, aerobic scope and swimming performance. Preliminary results for temperature preference suggest that fish from both treatments prefer temperatures below the current summer SSTs in Hawaii and may predict a population shift to cooler waters, either higher latitudes or greater depths, as the ocean warms in the next century. Additionally, the measures of aerobic scope following acclimation to warmer water will help understand how temperature change may affect fitness. A reduced aerobic scope would indicate that less energy could be allocated for essential activities such as reproduction, foraging and swimming.