Clown Tang

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Acanthurus lineatus

The Clown Tang is found widespread from the Western Indian Ocean to the central Pacific Ocean. The coloration of these tangs can vary a little between each specimen. In general, they have a bright yellow to bright orange body with a grayish belly. They are adorned with several blue stripes running horizontally along their bodies as well as bluish markings on their pectoral, anal, and dorsal fins. They will use their spines as a weapon against other fish that threaten them. A Clown Tang can reach up to 15 inches in length and requires an aquarium of at least 250 gallons with live rock and plenty of room to swim.

Use caution when housing with other Tangs or Surgeonfish. Similar shaped Tangs can be very aggressive towards each other. Although Tangs will eat meaty foods along with the other fish in the aquarium, it is important that they are offered plenty of marine based seaweed and algae.

Tang's can typically get along if they are not the same species and/or ample living space is provided given they are introduced at the appropriate size & time. The powder blue tang can be aggressive, especially when larger so often times it is the last fish that a reef keeper will add.