Black Tang
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
The Black Tang is one of the least aggressive members of its genus. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
This unusual tang has been showing up in aquarium stores with more regularity, with most individuals being collected around Christmas Island in the Central Pacific. It will eat some filamentous and macroalgae. Adults develop a greenish silver patch along the back. The body and snout also become more elongate as the fish grows.
Family: Acanthuridae
Other common name(s):
- Longnose Black Tang
- Longnose Surgeonfish
Native range:
- Eastern Central Pacific
- Line Islands
- Marquesan Islands
- Society Islands
- Tuamotu Islands
- Pitcairn Group
Habitat: In the wild, this species is found in lagoon and seaward reefs and feeds mainly on filamentous algae.
Maximum length: 21 cm (8 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 380 L (100 gal)
Water: Marine 24 °C (297 K, 75 °F) - 28 °C (301 K, 82 °F)
[edit] Feeding
Feed a mixed diet, the bulk of which should consist of vegetable matter. Give frozen foods that contain the blue-green algae Spirulina, slices of zucchini, broccoli, and dried algae. Vegetable matter should be introduced daily in an aquarium where algae is not present, and frozen foods should also be presented once or twice a day.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
This is a good reef aquarium fish and is one of the least aggressive members of its genus. It is likely to be picked on by more belligerent members of the genus and family.
[edit] Notes
As for others in the family, be sure you provide plenty of swimming room.
| Common name | Black Tang +, Longnose Black Tang +, and Longnose Surgeonfish + |
| Family | Acanthuridae + |
| Genus | Zebrasoma + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum length | 8 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 100 gal + |
| Native range | Eastern Central Pacific +, Line Islands +, Marquesan Islands +, Society Islands +, Tuamotu Islands +, and Pitcairn Group + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes + |
| Specific name | rostratum + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |