The Yellow Tang is a vibrant, lemon-yellow marine fish that is easily recognizable due to its striking color and distinctive body shape. It has a laterally compressed body with a continuous dorsal fin and a slightly protruding snout. The fish can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length. Their coloration can vary slightly depending on age and environment, often becoming more vibrant during the day and slightly faded at night.
Known Range:
Yellow Tangs are native to the Pacific Ocean, primarily found around the Hawaiian Islands. Their range extends to the central and western Pacific, including regions around Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia. They inhabit coral reefs and coastal areas, typically at depths of 2 to 46 meters (6.5 to 150 feet).
Care Requirements:
Tank Size: Minimum of 75 gallons for a single adult, larger tanks recommended for multiple specimens.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
pH: 8.1-8.4
Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
dKH: 8-12
Diet: Primarily herbivorous, requiring a diet rich in marine algae and seaweed. Supplemental feeding with high-quality flake, pellet, and frozen foods is beneficial.
Behavior: Generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks or with similar species. Best housed with other non-aggressive fish.
Habitat: Requires ample swimming space and plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They benefit from a well-established reef tank with stable water conditions.
Lighting: Moderate to high lighting to support the growth of algae which they feed on.
Compatibility: Compatible with a wide variety of reef-safe fish and invertebrates but may show aggression towards other tangs unless introduced in a sufficiently large environment.
Additional Notes:
Yellow Tangs are popular in the aquarium trade due to their vibrant color and hardiness.
They play an essential role in the ecosystem by grazing on algae, helping to keep coral reefs healthy.
Captive-bred specimens are now available, which helps reduce the pressure on wild populations and ensures healthier, more adaptable fish for home aquariums.
