Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Brown Scopas Tang, also known as just a Scopas Tang, has a wide distribution across the Indo-Pacific from the Philippines to Fiji. Juveniles may be viewed as slightly more attractive than adults, with their dorsal and anal fins appearing much more exaggerated compared to their body size, and having a blueish tinge along with their brown coloration. Adult Scopas tangs are yellow anteriorly, and this transitions to shades of brown that go from light to dark as you move posteriorly toward the tail (caudal) fin. An adult Scopas tang can reach a size of approximately 10″.
Diet Requirements: In the wild tangs are primarily herbivorous. A diet largely consisting of algae-based foods is absolutely necessary to maintain optimal health, coloration, immune function, and reduce aggression. If not, tangs often develop head and lateral line erosion from such deficiencies. Vegetable based flake foods or frozen foods, that may also include spirulina algae, are excellent options. We also recommend offering dried seaweed on a rock or clip three times a week minimum. Scopas tangs will consume various other protein-based frozen foods.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 125 gallon aquarium with 18+ inch width is ideal. Smaller specimens can be temporarily raised in smaller quarters (no less than 75 or 90 gallons) as long as it is upgraded accordingly. This tang enjoys some rock work and crevices to take refuge, but should also be provided with open swimming space. Typically, Zebrasoma species are semi-aggressive and territorial in nature. If you are looking to avoid potential rough-housing with other tank-mates, it can help to introduce this fish last. Additionally, Zebrasoma often conflict with conspecifics (including other species within the genus) or fish that have a similar body shape. If you want to house a Scopas tang with other types of tangs, it is best to add them all at once, or closely together at the very least, for the best success. Scopas tangs are generally solitary in nature, so we do not suggest having more than one per aquarium. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size:Â Small: 1-1/2″ to 2-1/4″; Medium: 2-1/2″ to 3-3/4″; Large: 4″ to 5″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
