Common name: Palelipped surgeonfish
General information
The Powder Blue Tang, scientifically known as Acanthurus leucocheilus, is a striking marine fish that is highly sought after by aquarists for its vibrant blue coloration and dynamic presence in the aquarium. This species is often confused with its close relative, the Powder Blue Surgeonfish (Acanthurus leucosternon), but can be distinguished by the white patch on its cheek.
Native to the coral-rich regions of the Indian Ocean, the Powder Blue Tang is a member of the surgeonfish family, known for the scalpel-like spine on the caudal peduncle, which can be used for defense.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 38 cm (1′3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prone to ich, needs quarantine
- Diet
- Herbivore Algae sheets, veggie pellets
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at other tangs
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerciformesPerciformes
- FamilySurgeonfishAcanthuridae
- GenusSurgeonfishAcanthurus
- SpeciesPalelipped surgeonfishAcanthurus leucocheilus Herre, 1927
- SynonymsAcanthurus leucochilus Herre, 1927Acanthurus leuocheilus Herre, 1927Acanthurus leuococheilus Herre, 1927Acanthurus melanosternon Smith, 1955
Care
Powder Blue Tangs require a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming room and a well-established environment with live rock for grazing on algae. They are active swimmers and can become territorial, so it's important to introduce them to the tank last. A varied diet of marine-based seaweed and algae, along with meaty foods, will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Powder Blue Tangs are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and rarely successful due to their complex larval requirements.
Habitat
Powder Blue Tangs are found in clear lagoon and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters. They are commonly observed in areas with strong water currents which aid in their feeding on plankton.
Their geographical distribution spans the Indian Ocean, from the eastern coast of Africa to Indonesia, and north to the Andaman Sea.