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Fish Guide |  |
Family: Acanthuridae (Tangs/Surgeonfishes)
Natural Range: Indian Ocean, Indo-Pacific Region, Pacific Ocean
Depth: 1 to 39 ft. Size: 17 in. Jumps: No Space: 75+ gal.
Reef Safe: Caution Care Level: Difficult Temperament: Caution
Diet: Algae, detritus
Natural History: The Ringtail Tang is generally found in small groups on outer lagoons and seaward reefs. It feeds on algae growing on compacted sand and the ingested sand is believed to aid in its digestive processes. This species has a gizzard-like stomach that is important to its digestion of algae.
Husbandry: The Ringtail Tang is herbivorous but likely needs a diet rich in algal material supplemented with high quality crustacean foods. It is reported to tolerate tankmates of other families well, but will likely be aggressive with other similar-bodied tangs. A tank with live rock and alage is a must for this species.
AKA: Ringtail Surgeonfish