Blue tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)

Blue tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) - Medium 3-8cm

$80.00 ea

Stock: Limited stock / Pre-order

About the Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)The Blue Tang, also known as the Regal Tang or Palette Surgeonfish, is one of the most recognizable and beloved...

See full description
  • Baby (1-3cm)

    $80.00 ea
  • Medium 3-8cm

    $150.00 ea
  • Medium unique full black pattern

    $150.00 ea

Description


About the Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)

The Blue Tang, also known as the Regal Tang or Palette Surgeonfish, is one of the most recognizable and beloved marine fish in the aquarium hobby. With its vibrant royal blue body, bold black markings, and bright yellow tail, this stunning fish brings both beauty and personality to any reef aquarium.

Care Requirements

  • Tank Size: Minimum 300 litres (75 gallons), preferably 450+ litres for adults
  • Diet: Primarily herbivorous - requires marine algae, nori sheets, spirulina, and quality herbivore pellets. Supplement with occasional meaty foods
  • Water Parameters: Temperature 24-26°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025
  • Swimming Space: Very active swimmer requiring plenty of open swimming area and rockwork for grazing
  • Experience Level: Intermediate - requires consistent feeding and stable water quality

Tank Compatibility

Generally peaceful and reef-safe, Blue Tangs make excellent community fish. They coexist well with most peaceful fish, clownfish, gobies, and non-aggressive species. Can be kept with other tang species if introduced simultaneously and provided adequate space. May show territorial behavior toward other Blue Tangs in smaller aquariums. Completely reef-safe and won't harm corals or invertebrates.

Fun Facts

  • Made famous as "Dory" in Finding Nemo and Finding Dory!
  • Possess a sharp spine ("tang") near the tail used for defense
  • Can change color intensity based on mood and time of day, appearing darker at night
  • In the wild, they form large schools and can live 30+ years
  • Juveniles often act as "cleaner fish" picking parasites off larger fish

Special Care Tips

  • Feeding: Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily. Use a veggie clip to secure nori sheets for natural grazing behavior
  • Disease Prevention: Particularly susceptible to marine ich (Cryptocaryon) - maintain excellent water quality and consider quarantine for new arrivals
  • Acclimation: Requires slow, careful acclimation (drip method recommended for 60+ minutes)
  • Hiding Spots: Provide caves and crevices where they can retreat at night or when stressed
  • Growth: Can reach 25-30cm in captivity - plan for adult size when selecting tank

Please be aware that variations exist within species, so your item may not precisely resemble the provided image. The size range of individual specimens is approximate and may vary. Any extraordinary fish size will be explicitly specified.


Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

ALL CATEGORIES

Find exactly what you're looking for!