Yellow Belly Blue Tang (Paracanthurus Hepatus var.)

Care Level : Moderate

Temperament : Semi-aggressive

Color : Blue, White, Yellow

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 : 1’

Origin : Indian Ocean

Family : Acanthuridae

Minimum Tank Size : 180 gallons

The Yellow Belly Blue Tang (Paracanthurus Hepatus var.) is just a color variant of the Pacific Blue Tang. The only difference is that it has a yellow belly and is collected from the Indian Ocean. 

This fish is rather flat, like a pancake, with a circular body shape, a pointed snout-like nose, and small scales. Though it shares the attractive coloration of the Blue Tang, the Yellow Belly Blue Tang boasts a richer, deep-blue coloration and a brilliant yellow coloration that covers a greater portion of the body. The yellow coloration, most prominent on the caudal fin (tail), continues across the belly region, giving the Yellow Belly Blue Tang an exciting boost in color. Small Yellow Belly Blue Tangs will not exhibit the yellow belly coloration until they mature. Combined with the signature bold black markings resembling a painter's palette, the Yellow Belly Regal Blue Tang is sure to be an impressive addition to reef or fish-only aquariums.

These fish have a sharp and venomous spine at the base of their caudal fin, or tail fin, to protect themselves from predators. The caudal spine contains a toxin that can cause severe pain, to small predators as well as humans.

Yellow Belly Blue Tang likes to hide well among living stones. However, this active fish also loves to swim. Blue Tangs should be kept in an aquarium of at least 180 gallons. 

Though peaceful towards most tankmates, the Yellow Belly Blue Tang will become aggressive towards other fish of its own species. To keep multiple specimens, introduce the entire lot at once into a larger marine system.

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 the Blue Tang's 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 three times per week. Ensure highest water quality and a varied diet, rich in nutritious marine-base vegetables to keep your Blue Tang in optimal health.