Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens)
The Yellow Tang (Zebrasoma flavescens) is a popular saltwater aquarium fish, its bright yellow body reaching 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). Laterally compressed and oval-shaped, it has translucent yellow fins; the dorsal fin, spanning most of its back, contains 10-11 spines and 24-27 soft rays (anal fin: 3 spines, 21-24 rays). Sharp spines warrant caution.
Inhabiting central and western Pacific coral reefs (1-15 meters deep), they thrive in 75-82°F (24-28°C) water with 1.023-1.025 salinity and 8.1-8.4 pH. Herbivorous, they feed on algae. Generally peaceful, territoriality can arise.
Wild lifespans exceed 10 years, though aquarium lifespans are often shorter. Overfishing is a concern. A minimum 150-gallon tank is needed, with excellent water quality crucial for their well-being.
Inhabiting central and western Pacific coral reefs (1-15 meters deep), they thrive in 75-82°F (24-28°C) water with 1.023-1.025 salinity and 8.1-8.4 pH. Herbivorous, they feed on algae. Generally peaceful, territoriality can arise.
Wild lifespans exceed 10 years, though aquarium lifespans are often shorter. Overfishing is a concern. A minimum 150-gallon tank is needed, with excellent water quality crucial for their well-being.
Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)
The Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) is a stunning saltwater fish, reaching 12-16 inches (30-40 cm). Its deep blue body contrasts sharply with a vibrant yellow tail and black facial stripe. Inhabiting Indo-Pacific coral reefs, they prefer shallow waters (1-20 meters).
These herbivores feed on algae, thriving in 72-82°F (22-28°C) water with a salinity of 1.023-1.025 and pH of 8.1-8.4. While generally peaceful, territoriality can arise, especially during feeding. Wild lifespans exceed 20 years, but aquarium lifespans may be shorter.
Overfishing threatens wild populations. A minimum 200-gallon tank is recommended for a single Blue Tang, requiring excellent water quality via regular changes and filtration.
These herbivores feed on algae, thriving in 72-82°F (22-28°C) water with a salinity of 1.023-1.025 and pH of 8.1-8.4. While generally peaceful, territoriality can arise, especially during feeding. Wild lifespans exceed 20 years, but aquarium lifespans may be shorter.
Overfishing threatens wild populations. A minimum 200-gallon tank is recommended for a single Blue Tang, requiring excellent water quality via regular changes and filtration.
Powder Blue Tang (Acanthurus leucosternon)
The Powder Blue Tang (Acanthurus leucosternon) is a prized saltwater aquarium fish, reaching 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). Its captivating powder blue body, sometimes tinged purplish, contrasts with pale blue fins.
Found in Indian and Pacific Ocean coral reefs (1-15 meters deep), they thrive in 72-82°F (22-28°C) water with 1.023-1.025 salinity and 8.1-8.4 pH. Herbivorous, they feed on algae. While generally peaceful, territoriality can occur. Wild lifespans exceed 10 years; aquarium lifespans may be shorter. Overfishing is a major concern.
A minimum 180-gallon tank is recommended for a single Powder Blue Tang, requiring excellent water quality through diligent water changes and filtration. Sharp spines near the tail require careful handling.
Found in Indian and Pacific Ocean coral reefs (1-15 meters deep), they thrive in 72-82°F (22-28°C) water with 1.023-1.025 salinity and 8.1-8.4 pH. Herbivorous, they feed on algae. While generally peaceful, territoriality can occur. Wild lifespans exceed 10 years; aquarium lifespans may be shorter. Overfishing is a major concern.
A minimum 180-gallon tank is recommended for a single Powder Blue Tang, requiring excellent water quality through diligent water changes and filtration. Sharp spines near the tail require careful handling.
Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum)
The Purple Tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum) is a striking saltwater fish prized for its deep purple body, reaching 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). Its fins are typically a lighter purple or translucent. Inhabiting the Indo-Pacific's coral reefs and rocky areas (depths of 1-15 meters), it thrives in 72-82°F (22-28°C) water with 1.023-1.025 salinity and 8.1-8.4 pH.
This herbivore grazes on algae. While generally peaceful, territoriality can emerge, especially among males. Wild lifespans exceed 10 years, but aquarium life may be shorter. Overfishing is a threat.
A minimum 150-gallon tank is recommended for a single Purple Tang, maintaining excellent water quality through regular water changes and filtration is vital for its health and longevity. Sharp spines near the tail require caution.
This herbivore grazes on algae. While generally peaceful, territoriality can emerge, especially among males. Wild lifespans exceed 10 years, but aquarium life may be shorter. Overfishing is a threat.
A minimum 150-gallon tank is recommended for a single Purple Tang, maintaining excellent water quality through regular water changes and filtration is vital for its health and longevity. Sharp spines near the tail require caution.
