AI-generated image
Mimic Tang
BeginnerAcanthurus pyroferus
Fascinating tang that mimics angelfish (Lemonpeel, Eibl's) as juveniles. Adults turn olive-brown. Hardy and practical algae grazer.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
24〜27℃
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
18-25cm
Diet
Herbivorous omnivore (seaweed, algae, frozen food)
About
The mimic tang (Acanthurus pyroferus) is a surgeonfish of the family Acanthuridae found across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is known for mimicking pygmy angelfishes such as the lemonpeel and the half-black angelfish during its juvenile stage, an intriguing strategy to deceive predators that gives the species its name. As it matures it changes to a subdued olive, brownish, or grayish coloration. A largely herbivorous omnivore, it feeds mainly on algae growing on rock and live rock, making it a practical algae-grazer for the aquarium. Hardy and easy to keep, it nonetheless needs ample swimming space as an active swimmer and may quarrel over territory with congeners or similarly colored fish.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
18-25cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Diet
Herbivorous omnivore (seaweed, algae, frozen food)
Care Guide
Tank Size
90cm+. Needs swimming space when grown
Tank Mates
Care Specifications
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Water Temp.
- 22–26℃
- Specific Gravity
- 1.02–1.025
- Salinity
- 33–35 ppt
- Min. Tank
- 473 L
Semi-aggressiveReef safe
Sources: LiveAquaria
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / 環境省 特定動物リスト / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Mimic Tang Listings
Loading latest listingsFind listings for this species
