Powder Blue Tang

The Powder Blue Tang (Acanthurus leucosternon) is a vibrant and popular marine fish known for its striking blue body, yellow dorsal fin, and contrasting white face. Native to the Indian Ocean, this species is a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts due to its vivid coloration and active swimming behavior.

(REEF SAFE / ADVANCED)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Powder Blue Tang, Powder Blue Surgeonfish
• Scientific Name: Acanthurus leucosternon
• Family: Acanthuridae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, inhabiting coral reefs and rocky areas.
• Maximum Size: Up to 9 inches (23 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live up to 10 years in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Advanced; requires meticulous attention to water quality, diet, and tank conditions.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Bright powder-blue body with a yellow dorsal fin, white face, and black markings around the eyes.
• Body Shape & Structure: Laterally compressed body typical of surgeonfish, with a sharp spine or "scalpel" at the base of the tail.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A 125-gallon (473 liters) tank is recommended to provide ample swimming space.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 75°F and 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.020 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding spots, along with open areas for free swimming.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Primarily herbivorous.
• Preferred Foods: Marine algae, seaweed sheets (nori), spirulina-based foods; occasional offerings of mysis shrimp or brine shrimp can be provided.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer food 2 to 3 times daily to support their high metabolism.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Active and can be territorial, especially towards other tangs or similarly shaped fish.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly unless in a very large tank; may show aggression towards conspecifics.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most peaceful marine species; avoid housing with aggressive or overly territorial fish.
• Activity Level: Highly active swimmers, requiring ample space to roam.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Due to their sensitivity to water quality and susceptibility to diseases like Marine Ich, they are best suited for experienced aquarists.
• Special Requirements: Stable water parameters are crucial; sudden changes can lead to stress and health issues.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented.
• Additional Notes: While considered reef-safe, they may occasionally nip at coral polyps if not adequately fed. Ensure a varied and sufficient diet to minimize this behavior.