Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Eibli Mimic Tang, also known as the Indian Ocean Mimic Tang, is collected primarily from the Indian Ocean. Juvenile Eibli mimic tangs take on the pseudonym “mimic” because it resembles the dwarf Eibli Angelfish (Centropyge eibli) as a way of avoiding predation. With maturation into an adult however, an Eibli mimic tang will change to an overall olive color with a lighter-colored face and a lyre-shaped tail with a white edge. An adult Eibli mimic tang can reach a size of approximately 10″. Note: This species is infrequently available.
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. Eibli mimic tangs will consume various other protein-based frozen foods.
Care Requirements: An established minimum 125 gallon aquarium with 18+ inch width is ideal. Tangs require a well oxygenated environment and more rigorous water movement. Eibli mimic tangs enjoy a variety of rock work to graze on and crevices to take refuge, but should also be provided with open swimming space. Eibli mimic tangs are often sought after to add to a reef aquarium for their natural tendency to graze upon algae build up. Typically, Eibli mimic tangs do not conflict with other tank mates and aren’t overly territorial in nature. Conflict could arise from trying to introduce other species of tang into an aquarium with an established Eibli mimic tang. If you want to house various types of tangs together, especially other Acanthurus species, it may be 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: Juvenile Small: 3″ or less; Medium: 3-1/4″ to 4″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
