Common Name: Blue Tang; Blue Surgeonfish
Scientific Name: Paracanthurus hepatus

Minimum Tank Size: 100 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperature: 72F-78F
Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
pH 8.1-8.4
Max. Size In Aquarium: 12"
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
Origin: Fiji, Indo-Pacific, Solomon Islands

Notes: The Pacific Blue Tang is also referred to as the Palette Surgeonfish, Hepatus Tang, Blue Surgeonfish, and Regal Tang. It is a highly prized, beautiful and long-lived Tang. Like most tangs and surgeons, it is easy to recognize because of the oval body shape and bold markings. It has a deep blue color with a "painter's palette" marking on the body.

Pacific Blue Tang requires a 100 gallon or larger aquarium with a number of hiding places and plenty of room to swim. It is tolerant of other tangs, but can occasionally be aggressive towards other Blue Tangs. If housing in groups, introduce all at once into a larger aquarium. It is more susceptible to lateral line disease, fin erosion, ich and other skin parasites than many other fish.

Although Tangs will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the aquarium, it is important that they are offered plenty of marine based seaweed and algae. This will strengthen their immune system, reduce aggression and improve their overall health. Offer dried seaweed tied to a rock or use a lettuce clip, and feed at least 3 times per week. Sea Veggies, Seaweed Salad and Ocean Nutrition are all ideal products and are very easy to use.