Care Level: Advanced

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: Yes

General Description: The Dussumieri Tang, also referred to as the Eyestripe or White-spined Tang, has a wide distribution across the Indo-Pacific, Africa, and Australia. Despite this large distribution, the Dussumieri tang is seldomly seen available within the aquarium-trade because it is a deeper water species, making this fish a true standout in the hobby when it is offered. With this elite status comes responsibility however, as the Dussumieri tang is one of the largest growing Acanthurus at approximately 20″ (please refer to “Care Requirements” below). An adult Dussumieri tang is unmistakable for its olive-yellow colored body, yellow stripe across each eye, blue crescent-shaped tail, and a maze of blue lines in its face. Juvenile or younger Dussumieri tangs are just as stunning, but these markings and colors are more subdued until it matures.

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. Dussumieri tangs will consume various other protein-based frozen foods.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 200 gallon aquarium with 18+ inch width is ideal for a juvenile Dussumieri tang in order to allow it space to grow. As it does, this species will require an even larger aquarium of 300 gallons or greater. Given this tang’s activity level, it will also need to be provided with a lot of unobstructed swimming space and highly oxygenated water, especially as it gains size. Hefty filtration and a large protein skimmer are recommended to better maintain a healthy environment. These specific requirements are why this fish has been listed as “Advanced”, because this species is truly an investment to keep. Dussumieri tangs are one of the least aggressive Acanthurus despite their large adult size, but caution should still be exercised when attempting to house various types of tangs together. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Juvenile Small: 1″ to 2-3/4″; Medium 2-3/4″ to 4″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.