Old Aquarium Favorite

With their beauty and grace, Yellow Tangs look great in any display tank

by Mike McEwan

The Yellow Tang is a disc-shaped fish with stunningly beautiful coloring. All fins are a bright yellow, which are equally matched by the body. Unlike some members of the family Acanthuridae, the juvenile and adult forms of this fish share the same coloring and basic appearance. Like other Tangs and Surgeons, this fish carry sharp spines on each side of the caudal penduncle, hence the name of "Surgeon" and "Tang".

Tank Setup

Yellow Tangs may be found in shallow waters of the Pacific, particularly along the shores of Hawaii. They should be kept in an aquarium of at least 45 gallons, preferably 55 gallons. Decorate the tank with large rocks and coral. These fish need their territories and should be kept either one per tank or in groups of six or more.

Feeding

These fish are herbivorous need vegetable matter in their diet. Algae tablets, lettuce, seaweed and spinach all make good foods. They will browse on algae growing on rocks and other decorations.

Water Chemistry

A salinity of 1.025 and temperature between 75-79 degrees F is recommended. If kept in proper conditions the fish lives a long and active life.

Breeding

Successful breeding of the species in captivity has not been reported.




Yellow Tang; Lau'i-pala


Sci Name:
Zebrasoma flavescens
Family:
Acanthuridae
Origin:
Tropical Pacific
Max Size:
8"
Salinity:
1.023-1.027
Temp:
75-79 F.
Tank Size:
55 Gallons
Feeding:
Herbivorous




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