Common name: Blue tang

General information

The Blue Tang, scientifically known as Acanthurus coeruleus, is a vibrant and popular marine fish among aquarists. It is known for its striking blue coloration and the scalpel-like spine on each side of the caudal peduncle, which is characteristic of the surgeonfish family. Juveniles are bright yellow, transitioning to blue as they mature.

The Blue Tang is often confused with the Pacific Blue Tang, Paracanthurus hepatus, which is known from the movie 'Finding Dory'. However, Acanthurus coeruleus is native to the Atlantic Ocean and has a more uniform blue coloration.

Care

Blue Tangs require a spacious tank with plenty of room to swim and a well-established environment with live rock for grazing on algae. They are active swimmers and can grow up to 15 inches in the wild, so a larger aquarium is necessary to accommodate their size and activity level. They are herbivores and their diet should consist mainly of marine algae, though they will also accept high-quality flake and frozen foods.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blue Tangs are known to form spawning aggregations. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Raising the larvae in captivity is challenging due to their planktonic stage and specific dietary requirements.

Symbiosis

While not known for a specific symbiotic relationship like clownfish with anemones, Blue Tangs do play a role in the reef ecosystem by controlling algae growth, which can otherwise overwhelm corals and other sessile organisms.

Habitat

Acanthurus coeruleus is found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean, from New York and Bermuda to the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and Brazil. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas, usually at depths of 2 to 40 meters.