Purple Tang

The Purple Tang is a vibrant and sought-after marine fish, renowned for its striking purple hue and active demeanor. Originating from the Red Sea and adjacent regions, this species is a prized addition to many marine aquariums.

(REEF SAFE  / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Purple Tang, Yellow-tail Tang, Yellow-tail Surgeonfish
• Scientific Name: Zebrasoma xanthurum
• Family: Acanthuridae
• Origin/Habitat: Inhabits coral-rich areas of the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Persian Gulf.
• Maximum Size: Typically reaches 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: In captivity, they can live up to 10 years with proper care.
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires a spacious tank and diligent maintenance of water quality.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Displays a rich purple body adorned with subtle darker stripes and a contrasting bright yellow tail fin.
• Body Shape & Structure: Features a laterally compressed, disc-shaped body with a pronounced dorsal fin and a sharp, scalpel-like spine near the tail base.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 100 gallons (380 liters) is recommended to accommodate their active swimming and territorial nature.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
• pH Level: Optimal range is 8.1 to 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Maintain between 1.020 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock formations for grazing and hiding, ensuring open areas for free swimming.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Primarily herbivorous.
• Preferred Foods: Feeds mainly on algae; supplement diet with marine-based seaweed, algae sheets, and occasional meaty foods.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer food 2 to 3 times daily.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Can be territorial and may exhibit aggression towards similar species.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly unless in very large aquariums; may show aggression towards other tangs or fish with similar shapes.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Generally compatible with a variety of marine species; caution is advised when introducing other tangs or similarly shaped fish.
• Activity Level: Active swimmer, often seen grazing on algae throughout the tank.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: While hardy, they require stable water conditions and a spacious environment to thrive.
• Special Requirements: Ensure a well-covered tank to prevent jumping; maintain high water quality to prevent disease.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented.
• Additional Notes: Regular monitoring is essential to manage potential aggression and ensure the well-being of tank mates.