Common name: Achilles Tang

General Information

The Achilles Tang (Acanthurus achilles) is a strikingly beautiful marine fish known for its jet-black body contrasted with vivid orange markings and a distinctive crescent-shaped tail. This fish is a favorite among experienced aquarists due to its vibrant coloration and dynamic swimming behavior. However, its care requirements and temperament make it more suitable for advanced hobbyists.

In the wild, Achilles Tangs are found in the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean, particularly around Hawaii and other Polynesian islands. They play a crucial role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by grazing on algae, which helps prevent algal overgrowth.

Care

Caring for an Achilles Tang requires a well-established, large aquarium with plenty of swimming space and live rock for grazing. These fish are highly active swimmers and need a tank that mimics their natural reef environment. A minimum tank size of 500 liters is recommended to accommodate their active lifestyle and territorial nature.

Achilles Tangs are sensitive to changes in water quality and require pristine water conditions. Regular monitoring and maintenance of water parameters, including temperature, salinity, and pH, are crucial to their health.

Diet and Feeding

Achilles Tangs are primarily herbivorous and thrive on a diet rich in marine algae and plant-based foods. Providing a variety of seaweed, such as nori, along with high-quality herbivore pellets, will ensure they receive the necessary nutrients. Occasional supplementation with meaty foods like mysis shrimp can be beneficial but should not be the mainstay of their diet.

Feed them several times a day in small amounts to mimic their natural grazing behavior and prevent overfeeding, which can lead to water quality issues.

Behavior and Compatibility

Achilles Tangs are known for their semi-aggressive temperament, particularly towards other tangs and similarly shaped fish. They can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks, and may exhibit aggression towards conspecifics or other species that encroach on their space.

These fish are best kept as the sole tang in a tank or with other non-aggressive species. They can coexist with a range of reef-safe fish, invertebrates, and corals when provided with enough space and hiding spots.

Health and Common Issues

Achilles Tangs are prone to certain health issues, particularly ich and other parasitic infections, due to their sensitivity to stress and water quality changes. Quarantining new additions and maintaining excellent water conditions are essential preventive measures.

Selecting a healthy specimen involves choosing an active fish with vibrant colors and no visible signs of disease. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment of any health issues are vital to their long-term well-being.

Habitat

Achilles Tangs inhabit coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes, often in areas with strong water movement, which they navigate with agility. They are typically found at depths of up to 10 meters (33 feet) in the Indo-Pacific region, including Hawaii and other central Pacific islands.

Creating a tank environment that mimics these conditions, with strong water flow and ample live rock for grazing, will help them thrive in captivity.