Chocolate Tang (Acanthurus pyroferus)

Max Size: 8 inches
Diet: Herbivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons

The Mimic Lemon Peel Tang, also called the Mimic Surgeon or Chocolate Surgeonfish, has a yellow, oval-shaped body as a juvenile and displays blue highlights around the eyes and gill covers, imitating the Lemonpeel Angelfish (Centropyge flavissimus). This characteristic is observed in several Acanthurus species that mimic angelfish. Upon maturing, its body color darkens to tan with red highlights forming around the eyes and pectoral fins. Its dorsal, anal, and caudal fins take on green hues but retain the tan body color at the tips.

To accommodate the Mimic Lemon Peel Tang, a 125-gallon or larger aquarium with an ample amount of live rock is essential to provide ample swimming space and territories within the live rock. Although this species is peaceful with other fish, it is aggressive towards other Tangs and Surgeonfish.

While Tangs can consume meaty foods with the other fish in the aquarium, it is vital to offer them a sufficient amount of marine-based seaweed and algae to strengthen their immune system, reduce aggression, and enhance overall health. Feeding them dried seaweed tied to a rock or utilizing a veggie clip at least three times per week with Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, or Ocean Nutrition is highly recommended. This species is also an excellent choice for controlling algae in saltwater fish or reef aquariums.