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Zebrasoma scopas
Brown-bodied tang, not flashy but an excellent algae cleaner. Hardy and easy to keep. More affordable than Yellow Tang. Actively grazes on algae.
The scopas tang (Zebrasoma scopas) is a surgeonfish of the genus Zebrasoma widely distributed across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Its coloration is a subdued brown, with fine dots and streaks visible at close range. Compared with the popular congeneric yellow tang it is plainer in appearance, but is correspondingly affordable and easy to obtain. A herbivore that grazes vigorously on algae growing on rock and live rock, it is an excellent algae-grazer for the aquarium. Hardy and easy to keep, it suits beginner-to-intermediate keepers, but it bears a sharp spine (scalpel) at the tail base, so it should be handled with care, and it may quarrel over territory with congeners or similarly colored fish. Ample swimming space is recommended.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Scopas Tang lives 10-15 years.
The Scopas Tang grows to 15-25cm.
The ideal temperature for the Scopas Tang is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans
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) / 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
24〜27℃
Herbivorous (seaweed, spirulina, veggie flakes)
90cm+ recommended. Needs swimming space
Keep the water at a stable 24-27°C. Hardy and easy to keep, but as an active swimmer it needs plenty of space and stable water quality.
Leans herbivorous: feed mainly seaweed, spirulina and vegetable flakes. Tank algae alone is not enough, so supplement with plant matter.
Aggressive with conspecifics. Peaceful with other species
Excellent cleaner. Actively eats algae from live rock
It has a sharp blade (scalpel) at the base of the tail, so take care when netting or handling it.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Scopas Tang is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Scopas Tang is 10-15 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Scopas Tang typically reaches 15-25cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Scopas Tang feeds on: Herbivorous (seaweed, spirulina, veggie flakes). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Scopas Tang varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026