Blochii Tang (Acanthurus blochii)

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Blochii Tang

Acanthurus blochii38576.jpg
Blochii Tang

Acanthurus blochii

946 Litres (250 US G.)

40-45 cm (15.7-17.7")

pH

8.1 - 8.5

23 -28 °C (73.4-82.4°F)

8-10 °d

1:1 M:F

Herbivore
Other (See article)

2-3 years

Family

Acanthuridae



Additional names

Blochii Tang, Ringtail Surgeonfish, Dark Surgeonfish, Tailring Surgeonfish, Whitetail Lancet, Ringtail Tang


Sexing

Difficult to visually sex.


Tank compatibility

Is best kept to the only Tang-like fish in the tank as it may be territorial towards other similar-looking species. Will be otherwise peaceful towards tank mates and is reef-safe.


Diet

Will mainly graze on algae and spirulina, and may also take lettuce, dried seaweed and zucchini. When buying these fish be aware that stock can easily starve, do not buy fish with sunken bellies.


Feeding regime

Feed two to three times a day.


Environment specifics

This is a large active fish needing a laterally spacious tank, they cannot thrive in fish-only saltwater tanks, they need live rock to graze on. They make excellent algae-eaters.


Behaviour

Active and can be territorial.


Identification

Oval-shaped fish, with a steep forehead. The body is bluish grey in colour with numerous yellowish brown spots which tend to form irregular longitudinal lines. The head has narrow irregular stripes and behind eye is a yellow spot. The pectoral fins are brown and there is a white bar at the base of the caudal fin. The white bar around the tail varies in intensity and can be entirely absent. Can be mistaken for Acanthurus dussumieri, Acanthurus mata or Acanthurus xanthopterus with subtle differences.

Pictures

External links