Scopas Tang

The Scopas Tang (Zebrasoma scopas), also known as the Brown Scopas Tang, is a hardy and popular marine fish appreciated for its unique coloration and algae-grazing habits. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this species is a valuable addition to many marine aquariums.

(REEF SAFE / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Scopas Tang, Brown Scopas Tang, Brown Sailfin Tang
• Scientific Name: Zebrasoma scopas
• Family: Acanthuridae
• Origin/Habitat: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, from East Africa to Japan, inhabiting coral-rich areas of lagoons and seaward reefs up to depths of 60 meters.
• Maximum Size: Can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live several years in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires a spacious tank and consistent water quality.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Exhibits a gradient from yellow dorsally to brown ventrally, with colors darkening towards the tail. The body is adorned with fine, intricate, light blue markings, and the tail is solid brown.
• Body Shape & Structure: Features a deep, laterally compressed body with a protruding snout and a sharp spine on the caudal peduncle used for defense.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 125 gallons (473 liters) is recommended to provide ample swimming space and accommodate their active 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 plenty of 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 vegetable matter such as spinach and broccoli.
• Feeding Frequency: Offer food 2 to 3 times daily.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Can be territorial, especially towards similar-shaped fish.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly unless in a very large aquarium; may show aggression towards other tangs or surgeonfish.
• 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.