
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Zebrasoma xanthurum
A premium surgeonfish with beautiful deep purple coloration. Endemic to Red Sea with high rarity.
The purple tang (Zebrasoma xanthurum) comes from the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea; the deep blue-purple body with a bright yellow tail is unmistakable. Its restricted range keeps supply low and it is one of the pricier tangs. Adults reach 15-25 cm and swim a great deal, so a tank of at least 120 cm and 200 L is the starting point. It is strongly herbivorous and the algae in a tank will not sustain it, so clip dried nori or sea lettuce in daily. Too little plant matter predisposes it to head-and-lateral-line erosion. Like tangs generally it is prone to marine ich, so quarantine on arrival and hold the temperature steady. It fights other surgeonfish fiercely.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Purple Tang lives 10-15 years.
The Purple Tang grows to 15-25cm.
The ideal water temperature for the Purple Tang is 22〜26℃.
Origin
the north western Indian Ocean
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
15-25cm
Sources: LiveAquaria
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List / Ministry of the Environment Specified Animal List / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Temperature
23〜26℃
Seaweed, Artificial feed
Large tank (200L+) required
Provide plenty of seaweed-based food
Fights fiercely with same/similar species
Red Sea endemic, expensive
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Purple Tang is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Purple Tang is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Purple Tang typically reaches 15-25cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Purple Tang feeds on: Seaweed, Artificial feed. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Purple Tang varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026