Common name: Orange Shoulder Tang

General information

The Orange Shoulder Tang, scientifically known as Acanthurus olivaceus, is a striking marine fish that adds both beauty and grace to any saltwater aquarium. It is characterized by its vibrant orange patch behind the gills, which becomes more pronounced and vivid as the fish matures. Juveniles display a more muted coloration with an orange stripe, which gradually transforms into the adult's shoulder patch.

This species is part of the surgeonfish family, which is known for the scalpel-like spine on the caudal peduncle, used for defense and territorial disputes. The Orange Shoulder Tang is a herbivorous species, primarily grazing on algae in the wild.

Care

Orange Shoulder Tangs require a spacious tank to accommodate their size and active swimming behavior. They are best kept in tanks that are at least 125 gallons or larger to provide ample swimming space. These fish are generally peaceful but can show aggression towards other tangs or surgeonfish, especially in smaller aquariums.

A varied diet is crucial for their health, consisting of marine-based seaweed and algae, along with high-quality herbivore preparations. Supplementing with fresh vegetables such as zucchini or spinach can also be beneficial.

Reproduction

In the wild, Orange Shoulder Tangs are group spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and rarely successful due to their large space requirements and complex larval stage.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Orange Shoulder Tang spans across the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Ducie islands, north to southern Japan, and south to the Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. They are commonly found in clear lagoons and seaward reefs, often in areas with robust algal growth.