Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Halfblack Mimic Tang, also known as the Mimic Tang, is native throughout the clear channels and reefs of the Western Pacific. Both juvenile and adult Halfblack mimic tangs take on the pseudonym “mimic” because they resembles the dwarf Halfblack Angelfish (Centropyge vroliki) as a way of avoiding predation. With maturation, the tail of an adult will become more lyre in shape and develop a light blue outline. An adult Halfblack 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. Halfblack 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. Halfblack 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. Halfblack mimic tangs are often sought after to add to a reef aquarium for their natural tendency to graze upon algae build up. Typically, Halfblack mimic tangs do not conflict with other tank-mates and aren’t overly territorial in nature. Conflict could arise however from conspecifics (including other species of tang within the genus Acanthurus). 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: 1″ to 2″; Medium: 2″ to 2-3/4″; Large: 2-3/4″ to 3-1/2″; Adult Small: 2-1/2″ to 3-1/4″; Medium: 3-1/4″ to 4″; Large: 4″ to 6″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
