Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Doctor Tang, also referred to as simply the Doctorfish, is found in the Atlantic Ocean. The Doctor tang is named for the appearance of its dorsal fin, sharp or scalpel-like. One of the hardier tang species, the Doctor tang has an overall olive-colored body with faint vertical stripes and attractively colored blue fins. An adult Doctor tang can reach a size of approximately 15″, making this species a bit of a commitment.
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. Doctor tangs will consume various other protein-based frozen foods.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 125 gallon aquarium with 18+ inch width is ideal for a small or medium sized Doctor tang in order to allow it space to grow. As it does, this species will require an even larger aquarium of 200 gallons or greater. Hefty filtration and a large protein skimmer are recommended to better maintain a healthy environment. Doctor tangs enjoy a variety of rock work and crevices to take refuge, but also should be provided with open swimming space. Doctor tangs are often sought after to add to a reef aquarium for their natural tendency to graze upon algae build up. Acanthurus often have issue with conspecifics (including other species within the genus) and even tangs from other genera. If you want to house various types of tangs together, especially multiple Acanthurus species, it is best to add them all at once, or closely together at the very least, for the best success. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Small: 2″ to 3″; Medium: 3-1/4″ to 4-1/2″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.