Hippo Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus)
Max Size: 1 foot (12 inches)
Diet: Herbivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: Yes
Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
The Blue Tang is a stunning fish with an electric blue body and bold black markings, which create a unique shape similar to a painter's palette. It is also known as the Palette Surgeonfish, Pacific Blue Tang, Hepatus or Regal Tang. This peaceful fish is suitable for a large community marine aquarium and can be found in reefs across the Indo-Pacific.
To keep the Blue Tang healthy, it needs ample room to swim and hide amongst live rock. While it is peaceful towards most tankmates, it can become aggressive towards other Blue Tangs, so it is best to introduce the entire lot at once into a larger marine system. It is also important to provide a diet rich in marine-based seaweed and algae to strengthen its immune system, reduce aggression, and improve overall health. Dried seaweed tied to a rock or a veggie clip can be offered at least three times per week.
Proper care of the Blue Tang requires attention and dedication as it is more susceptible to lateral line disease, fin erosion, Ich, and other skin parasites. Maintaining high water quality and a varied diet can help keep your Blue Tang in optimal health. Products like Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad, and Ocean Nutrition are ideal and easy to use.
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