Blue tang

The blue tang (Paracanthurus hepatus) is a marine surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae, native to reefs across the Indo-Pacific. It has a vivid royal-blue body with a bold black palette-shaped marking and a bright yellow tail, making it one of the most recognizable reef fish. Like all tangs, it has sharp spines at the tail base. It is an active, generally peaceful fish that can be territorial toward other tangs. Juveniles may shelter in groups, but adults are best kept singly unless the aquarium is very large. A large aquarium with strong flow, abundant live rock for grazing and shelter, and excellent water quality is essential. Its diet should be rich in marine algae and vegetable matter, supplemented with occasional meaty foods. Generally reef-safe. It is prone to parasitic disease and stress, so stable conditions matter. Captive breeding has been achieved commercially but remains uncommon.