Vlamingii Tang (Naso vlamingii)

The Vlamingii Tang is one of the most impressive and fast-growing surgeonfish in the reef hobby, known for its striking blue-grey body, yellow tail, and elegant streaming filaments that extend from the dorsal and anal fins as it matures.

This is a true “showpiece” tang that quickly becomes a dominant visual presence in large marine aquariums. While stunning, it is also a very large and active species that requires significant swimming space and a well-established system.

Scientific Name

Naso vlamingii

Common Names

• Vlamingii Tang
• Vlaming’s Unicorn Tang
• Eyestripe Tang (common trade variation usage)

Care Level

Moderate to Advanced

Temperament

Semi-aggressive (generally peaceful but large and assertive)

Reef Safe

Yes — completely reef safe

Minimum Tank Size

600L+

Adult Size

Up to 50cm+

Lifespan

10–20 years with proper care

Natural Habitat

Vlamingii Tangs are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, especially around outer reef slopes, lagoons, and drop-offs. They are active mid-water swimmers that constantly move along reef edges, grazing on algae and plankton.

Juveniles are more subdued, but adults become powerful, fast-moving swimmers requiring large territories.

Diet & Feeding

Vlamingii Tangs are omnivorous with a strong herbivorous tendency.

Recommended Foods

• Marine algae sheets (nori)
• Spirulina-based pellets
• Herbivore flakes
• Frozen mysis shrimp (supplemental)
• Marine herbivore blends
• Fresh macroalgae

Feed 2–3 times daily due to rapid growth and high metabolism.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–26°C
• Salinity: 1.024–1.026
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Nitrate: <15ppm
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0

Strong oxygenation and high flow are important for long-term health.

Tank Setup

Vlamingii Tangs require very large, mature reef systems due to their size and swimming behaviour.

Ideal Setup Includes

• Large open swimming zones
• Extensive live rock for grazing
• High flow and oxygenation
• Strong filtration system
• Secure lid (very active swimmer)

This species is best suited for public aquarium-scale home systems.

Compatibility

Generally peaceful for its size but may outcompete smaller fish due to sheer presence.

Compatible With

• Large tangs (in big systems)
• Wrasses
• Clownfish
• Foxface
• Large angelfish
• Anthias (in large setups)

Use Caution With

• Small or timid species
• Overcrowded reef tanks
• Other large naso tangs in limited space

Common Mistakes

Underestimating Final Size

One of the most common issues — juveniles are small but grow extremely large and fast.

Small Tank Keeping

This species requires massive swimming space long term.

Inadequate Feeding

Rapid growth demands consistent, high-quality feeding.

Poor Long-Term Planning

Many hobbyists acquire juveniles without planning for adult size.

Fun Facts

• Vlamingii Tangs develop long filament extensions that flow dramatically while swimming
• They are among the fastest-growing tang species in captivity
• Their name comes from Dutch explorer Adriaen van Vlamingh
• They often “patrol” large sections of reef in constant motion

Why Buy Vlamingii Tangs From Aquamarine Aquaristic?

At Aquamarine Aquaristic, our tangs are carefully selected for health, feeding response, and strength before sale. We provide guidance to ensure hobbyists choose appropriate species for their system size, helping avoid long-term welfare issues.