Yellow Tang

The Yellow Tang is one of the most popular and recognizable saltwater aquarium fish, known for its vibrant canary-yellow coloration and oval-shaped body. Native to the reefs of Hawaii and the Indo-Pacific, these beautiful surgeonfish are active swimmers that bring bright color and movement to marine aquariums. They are relatively hardy compared to other tangs but require stable water parameters and a diet rich in algae. Yellow Tangs can become territorial towards other tangs but are generally peaceful with other tank mates.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Yellow Tangs need adequate space for their active swimming behavior:

• Minimum 75 gallons (100+ recommended)
• Long tanks preferred - need horizontal swimming space
• Live rock (15-20 lbs per 10 gallons)
• Protein skimmer
• Powerheads for moderate to strong flow
• Heater to maintain 75-82°F
• High-quality marine lighting

Important: They are active swimmers that patrol the tank constantly. Cramped quarters lead to stress and aggression.

Water Quality (Marine)

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm
• Phosphate: <0.03 ppm
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

Maintenance:

• Weekly 15-20% water changes
• Top off with RO/DI water daily
• Excellent filtration mandatory

Feeding

Yellow Tangs are primarily herbivores requiring a vegetable-rich diet:

• Staple: Marine algae sheets (Nori) - clip to glass 2-3 times daily
• Spirulina-based marine flakes and pellets
• Frozen foods: Mysis shrimp, marine mixes
• Vegetables: Blanched zucchini, spinach, lettuce
• Grazing on live rock algae

Feeding Schedule: Multiple small feedings throughout the day. They graze almost continuously.

Critical: Insufficient algae in their diet can lead to health issues and potential aggression.

Behavior & Compatibility

Yellow Tangs can be territorial but generally peaceful in properly stocked tanks:

• Good Tank Mates:

  • Clownfish (Ocellaris, Percula)
  • Other tangs (different shapes - Blue Tang, Kole Tang)
  • Gobies (Shrimp Gobies, Firefish)
  • Blennies
  • Cardinalfish
  • Dartfish
  • Most peaceful reef fish

• Avoid:

  • Other Yellow Tangs (will fight unless in very large tanks)
  • Similar body-shaped tangs in small tanks
  • Aggressive triggers
  • Large predatory fish

Note: In tanks under 100 gallons, keep only one Yellow Tang to prevent territorial disputes.

Health Considerations

Yellow Tangs are susceptible to certain conditions:

• Marine Ich: Quarantine new fish; observe for white spots
• HLLE (Head and Lateral Line Erosion): Prevent with varied diet and quality water
• Fin damage: Usually from aggression or poor water quality

Prevention: Maintain pristine water, provide excellent nutrition, and minimize stress.