Blue Tang (Paracanthurus Hepatus)

Key FactsAlso Known As: Regal Tang, Hippo Tang, Blue Hippo Tang, Palette Surgeonfish, “Dory”Compatibility, Behavior, and Environment: The Blue Tang is reef-safe, allowing it to be compatible with a variety of aquariums. It does well in groups of other Blue Tangs (especially when introduced simultaneously), and will even school if you have enough of them. Note that the Blue Tang comes in a wide range of sizes, so be sure to pick a size that is compatible with your system. Blue Tangs can be somewhat shy compared to other Tang species, so while this makes it a great addition to a totally peaceful tank, if you are going to order one to co-exist with more aggressive species/eaters such as other Tangs, it is crucial to avoid ordering a Blue Tang that is smaller than his tankmates. A shy Blue Tang that is undersized compared to his tankmates may struggle to eat in the system, so this is important. The 1-1.4” size is super cute, but is definitely TINY and only compatible with peaceful and small tanks. Crucially, if housing your Blue Tang in a tank with other Tangs/aggressive fish, ensure that it is of equal or bigger size than its existing tankmates. Like most Tangs, the Blue Tang diet primarily consists of algae and seaweed, supplemented with mixed meaty foods such as mysis shrimp. If your Blue Tang arrives on its side, do not be alarmed as this is normal arrival behavior for this species. Ensuring that it has hiding places and that there are no other fish to chase/bully it will help it destress more quickly. Quarantine is recommended for this species which can be more prone to underlying issues such as ich.Aquarium Requirements: Recommended tank size will be dependent on the size of the Blue Tang you order, but plan for at least 50 gallons for a tiny to small Blue Tang, 100 gallons for 2-3” Tangs, and 180+ gallons for 3”+ Tangs. The tank layout should include plenty of rockwork and a consistent source of algae and seaweed for grazing. Proper tank management should focus on stable water conditions to prevent stress and underlying diseases like ich to present itself (unless you do a full quarantine). Specifications:Approximate Size: As ListedDiet: Herbivore, with a strong preference for various types of algae. Supplemental feeding with high-quality seaweed and mixed meaty foods such as mysis shrimp are crucial as well.Water Conditions: Prefers a temperature range of 72-78°F, with a pH of 8.0-8.4 and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025.Origin: Indo-PacificCare Level: ModerateReef-Safe: YesTemperament: Semi-Aggressive