Blue Tang
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Image:Acanthurus coeruleus.jpg
The herbivorous Blue Tang can be kept in small groups in larger aquariums. Scott W. Michael
[edit] Overview
The Blue Tang feeds mostly on filamentous algae and is a good choice for controlling undesirable algae. It may eat more desirable macroalgae and occasionally nip the tissue of large-polyped stony corals (especially large-polyped species).
Family: Acanthuridae
Other common name(s):
- Blue Tang Surgeonfish
- Blue Barber
- Blue Doctorfish
- Yellow Barber
- Yellow Doctorfish
Native range:
- Western Atlantic
- Bermuda
- Gulf of Mexico
- Brazil
- Eastern Atlantic
- Ascension Island
Habitat: In the wild, the Blue Tang forms small groups and inhabits coral reefs, inshore grassy or rocky areas.
Maximum length: 23 cm (9 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 it frozen foods that contain the blue-green algae Spirulina, slices of zucchini, broccoli, and dried algae flakes or sheets. Vegetable matter should be introduced daily in an aquarium where algae is not present, and frozen foods should also be presented several times a day.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Although this species is usually well-behaved in larger aquariums, it can misbehave in smaller tanks. Your safest bet is to keep only one A. coeruleus per tank, especially the yellow juveniles which are highly territorial. Small groups of adults can be kept in extra-large aquariums and should be added simutaneously.
| Common name | Blue Tang +, Blue Tang Surgeonfish +, Blue Barber +, Blue Doctorfish +, Yellow Barber +, and Yellow Doctorfish + |
| Family | Acanthuridae + |
| Genus | Acanthurus + |
| Image credit | SWM + |
| Maximum length | 9 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 100 gal + |
| Native range | Western Atlantic +, Bermuda +, Gulf of Mexico +, Brazil +, Eastern Atlantic +, and Ascension Island + |
| Reference | A PocketExpert Guide to Reef Aquarium Fishes + |
| Specific name | coeruleus + |
| Text credit | SWM + |
| Water max temp | 301 K (28 °C, 82 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 297 K (24 °C, 75 °F) + |
| Water type | Marine + |