Regal tang
Paracanthurus hepatus
The regal tang is a spectacular reef fish with an electric-blue body and yellow tail, made famous by animated cinema.
Characteristics
Temperament
Diurnal, sociable when young, lively
Diet
Plankton and algae
Description
The regal tang, also called blue tang, is one of the most spectacular and recognisable reef fish. It has an oval, flattened body of intense royal blue, crossed by a black palette-shaped pattern, and a bright yellow tail. Like all surgeonfishes, it bears a sharp bony blade on each side of the tail base, used in defence. It is the only species in its genus.
Habitat and distribution
It lives on coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to Japan and the Great Barrier Reef. It frequents the clear waters of current-exposed reefs, often in small groups moving among branching corals.
Behaviour and diet
It is a diurnal and mainly herbivorous fish, feeding on plankton and algae. Juveniles live in groups among coral branches, where they take refuge at the slightest danger. If threatened, it can play dead by lying on its side, as well as defending itself with its caudal spines.
Aquarium care
It is among the most sought-after marine fish, partly due to its fame in animated cinema. It needs, however, a very large tank, excellent water quality and places to hide. It is delicate to acclimatise and must be handled carefully because of the spines. Its fame has increased pressure on wild populations.
Conservation
It is classed as least concern. As captive breeding is difficult, most specimens in trade come from the wild: for this reason it is important to favour sustainable, responsible sources.
Pros
- Spectacular blue-and-yellow coloration
- Useful algae grazer on the reef
- Long-lived, can exceed twenty years
Cons
- Needs very large tanks and pristine water
- Delicate to acclimatise in the aquarium
- Sharp spines, to be handled with care
