Atlantic Blue Tang

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Tropical and subtropical Western Atlantic. Inhabits seagrass beds, rocky reefs, and protected coral reefs down to depths of 40 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Acanthuridae. Reaches about 39 cm (usually 25-30 cm in captivity). Tall, laterally compressed body, retractable bony spine at the base of the tail.

Social Behavior: Very active fish, swims constantly grazing on rocks. Displays moderate intraspecific territoriality that increases with age.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Remarkable color metamorphosis. Juveniles are bright lemon-yellow with blue margins. Adults are uniform dark purple-blue with fine wavy horizontal lines. Blue tail. No sexual dimorphism.

Aquarium Setup: Large tank of at least 680 liters (180 gallons) to allow fast free swimming. Plenty of live rock to stimulate natural grazing.

Diet and Feeding: Specialized herbivore. Feed daily with nori seaweed sheets, spirulina, enriched veggie pellets, and fresh blanched vegetables.

Water Quality: Temperature 22-27°C (72-80°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025. Requires efficient filtration and strong surface water movement.

Compatibility and Tankmates: 100% reef-safe. Does not damage corals. May display aggression toward similar surgeonfish introduced afterward.

Aquarium Reproduction: Reproduction in the hobby is not reported due to difficulties related to pelagic larval survival.

Risks and Diseases: Sensitive to Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon). The use of UV sterilizers is highly recommended to keep skin parasites under control.