Source: Wikimedia Commons
Blue Tang
IntermediateParacanthurus hepatus
Stunning royal blue body with yellow tail. Active swimmer requiring large tanks. Prone to ich — strict water quality is essential. Global popularity boosted by film.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
24〜27℃
Lifespan
8-20 years
Size
20-30cm
Diet
Omnivore (seaweed, spirulina, frozen food)
About
The Pacific blue tang (Paracanthurus hepatus), made famous by the film 'Finding Dory', is a surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae found across coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its brilliant royal blue body, bold black palette marking, and yellow tail fin make it one of the most visually striking species in the marine aquarium hobby. Adults can exceed 30 cm in length, requiring a minimum 90-litre tank, ideally 120 cm or larger. Susceptible to Cryptocaryon (marine ich), it demands stable, high-quality water with specific gravity 1.023–1.025 and pH 8.1–8.4. Ample swimming space is essential for its health and well-being.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans
Lifespan
8-20 years
Size
20-30cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Diet
Omnivore (seaweed, spirulina, frozen food)
Care Guide
Tank Size
90cm+ minimum. 120cm recommended for adults
Water
SG 1.023-1.025, pH 8.1-8.4. Maintain pristine water
Tank Mates
Peaceful but semi-aggressive with conspecifics. Large tanks allow community
Notes
Extremely ich-prone. UV sterilizer strongly recommended
IntermediateLargeActive swimmerVivid blue
Blue Tang FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Blue Tang?
A
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Blue Tang?
A
The ideal temperature for Blue Tang is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Blue Tang?
A
The average lifespan of Blue Tang is 8-20 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Blue Tang Q&A
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