Powder Brown Tang

The Powder Brown Tang (Acanthurus nigricans) is a striking and peaceful tang species known for its smooth, powdery brown coloration. It is a beautiful and valuable addition to reef tanks, especially due to its algae-eating habits and relatively docile nature.

(REEF SAFE / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Powder Brown Tang, Brown Tang, Indian Ocean Powder Brown Tang
• Scientific Name: Acanthurus nigricans
• Family: Acanthuridae
• Origin/Habitat: Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in coral reefs, lagoons, and seagrass beds.
• Maximum Size: Up to 8 inches (20 cm)
• Lifespan: Typically 5–10 years with proper care
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires a well-established tank and stable water conditions.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: The Powder Brown Tang is characterized by its soft, powdery brown coloration, with a faint yellowish hue along the edges of the fins. It has a pale blue area around the tail and a noticeable black marking near the eyes.
• Body Shape & Structure: Oval, laterally compressed body with a small mouth ideal for grazing. It features sharp spines on both sides of the tail for defense.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons (284 liters) or larger.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide live rock for grazing and hiding spots. A tank with plenty of open swimming space is recommended for this active swimmer.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Herbivorous
• Preferred Foods: Primarily feeds on algae, including hair algae, and will graze on live rock. It also accepts nori, seaweed, and algae-based pellets.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 times daily; provide algae and nori to meet its grazing needs.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful, though it may exhibit some territorial behavior toward other tangs, especially other Acanthurus species.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly or with other peaceful herbivores. Avoid keeping with similarly shaped tangs, as this can lead to territorial disputes.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with most peaceful fish, especially other herbivores. Avoid aggressive species that may stress it out.
• Activity Level: Active grazer, often seen swimming around the tank and searching for algae to graze on.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: The Powder Brown Tang is a hardy species but requires a stable, well-maintained tank with plenty of algae for grazing. It does well in both fish-only and reef tanks with appropriate tank mates.
• Special Requirements: Regular grazing is essential to maintain its health. Offering a variety of algae-based foods will keep it happy and well-nourished.
• Breeding Info: Rarely bred in captivity; little is known about its reproductive behavior.
• Additional Notes: This tang is a great algae controller and adds both beauty and functionality to a reef tank. Its peaceful temperament makes it suitable for community tanks, but its tank size and grazing needs should be carefully considered.