Blue Caribbean Tang (Acanthurus Coeruleus)
Sometimes this fish is out of stock, check with us before ordering: reefexclusive@gmail.com
Size: S, M
Species Name : Acanthurus Coeruleus
Care Level : Moderate
Temperament : Semi-aggressive
Color : Blue
Diet : Herbivore
Reef Compatible : Yes
Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4
Max. Size : 9"
Origin : Atlantic Ocean
Family : Acanthuridae
Minimum Tank Size : 180 gallons
Blue Caribbean Tang (Acanthurus Coeruleus) is a surgeonfish found commonly in the Atlantic Ocean. Common names include Atlantic Blue Tang, Blue Barber, Blue Doctorfish, Blue Tang, Blue Tang Surgeonfish and Yellow Barber.
The Blue Caribbean Tang has an oval body with bold markings that change as the fish matures from juvenile to adult. A juvenile is bright yellow with two blue bands at the eyes, and additional blue markings at the fringes of the dorsal and caudal fins. When mature, the blue will become even brighter with markings running horizontally along the entire body. It may have a yellow tail. Acanthurus Coeruleus exhibits biofluorescence, that is, when illuminated by blue or ultraviolet light, it re-emits it as green, and appears differently than under white light illumination. Biofluorescence may assist in intraspecific communication and camouflage.
A 180 gallon or larger aquarium is necessary to provide plenty of swimming room. Can be maintained in reef or fish-only aquariums having wide-open swimming areas and somewhat turbulent, well-oxygenated water flow.
It is aggressive towards other Tangs and Surgeonfish, but peaceful with other fish. Can be somewhat aggressive if maintained in an aquarium too small for its size.
They are herbivorous, and their diet consists only of filamentous algae, detritus and plankton. 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. This will strengthen their immune system, reduce aggression and improve their overall health. Offer dried seaweed tied to a rock or use a veggie clip, and feed at least 3 times per week.
Size: Juvenile Medium: 2" to 2-1/2"; Adult Small: 2-1/2" to 3"