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The Yellow Belly Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus var.) is a striking addition to large marine reef systems, combining vivid coloration with active grazing behavior. This regional variation of the classic Blue Tang develops a bright golden-yellow belly as it matures, creating a strong contrast against its royal blue body, black palette markings, and yellow tail.
Available in Small and Medium sizes, the Yellow Belly Blue Tang is an active swimmer that requires plenty of open space. Smaller juveniles may show less yellow on the belly, while medium-sized and mature specimens typically display more developed coloration. The yellow belly will become increasingly vibrant as the fish grows.
This tang thrives in a large, mature marine aquarium with excellent filtration, strong water movement, and plenty of established live rock for grazing, shelter, and nighttime resting areas. It is generally peaceful toward unrelated community fish but may become territorial toward other tangs or similarly shaped species.
To support its metabolism, immune system, and coloration, provide a varied diet with a heavy vegetable component. Offer high-quality spirulina flakes, herbivore pellets, and dried nori seaweed regularly. Frozen Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other protein-rich foods may be offered as supplements.
Available Sizes
Small
A younger specimen that may have less developed yellow belly coloration. Ideal for hobbyists who want to watch the fish’s colors mature over time.
Medium
A more established specimen with stronger body size and typically more noticeable yellow belly coloration.
Note: Images shown are stock images and do not represent the exact fish you will receive. Coloration, markings, and body shape may vary slightly between individual fish. The yellow belly becomes more vibrant and pronounced as the fish matures.
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive. Generally peaceful with community tankmates but may be territorial with other tangs.
Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
Diet: Herbivore / Omnivore with a heavy vegetable requirement
Reef Compatible: Yes
Maximum Size: 8 to 10 inches
Water Temperature: 72 to 78°F
Alkalinity: 8 to 12 dKH
pH: 8.1 to 8.4
Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025
The Yellow Belly Blue Tang is an excellent choice for experienced reef hobbyists looking to add constant movement and high-impact color to the middle and upper areas of a large aquarium. Its natural grazing behavior can help manage microalgae growth on established rockwork.
Provide ample open swimming space, strong oxygenation, consistent water quality, and several secure crevices for resting. A reliable feeding schedule with frequent access to marine algae will help reduce stress and support long-term health.
We use professional livestock packing procedures for national overnight delivery. Each order is packed with insulated materials and climate-appropriate heat or ice packs to help maintain stable temperatures during transit.
Our shipping process is designed to protect the health and vitality of your fish from our facility to your aquarium. Be prepared to receive the shipment promptly and begin the recommended acclimation process immediately upon arrival.
The Yellow Belly Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus var.) is a striking addition to large marine reef systems, combining vivid coloration with active grazing behavior. This regional variation of the classic Blue Tang develops a bright golden-yellow belly as it matures, creating a strong contrast against its royal blue body, black palette markings, and yellow tail.
Available in Small and Medium sizes, the Yellow Belly Blue Tang is an active swimmer that requires plenty of open space. Smaller juveniles may show less yellow on the belly, while medium-sized and mature specimens typically display more developed coloration. The yellow belly will become increasingly vibrant as the fish grows.
This tang thrives in a large, mature marine aquarium with excellent filtration, strong water movement, and plenty of established live rock for grazing, shelter, and nighttime resting areas. It is generally peaceful toward unrelated community fish but may become territorial toward other tangs or similarly shaped species.
To support its metabolism, immune system, and coloration, provide a varied diet with a heavy vegetable component. Offer high-quality spirulina flakes, herbivore pellets, and dried nori seaweed regularly. Frozen Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other protein-rich foods may be offered as supplements.
Available Sizes
Small
A younger specimen that may have less developed yellow belly coloration. Ideal for hobbyists who want to watch the fish’s colors mature over time.
Medium
A more established specimen with stronger body size and typically more noticeable yellow belly coloration.
Note: Images shown are stock images and do not represent the exact fish you will receive. Coloration, markings, and body shape may vary slightly between individual fish. The yellow belly becomes more vibrant and pronounced as the fish matures.
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive. Generally peaceful with community tankmates but may be territorial with other tangs.
Minimum Tank Size: 180 gallons
Diet: Herbivore / Omnivore with a heavy vegetable requirement
Reef Compatible: Yes
Maximum Size: 8 to 10 inches
Water Temperature: 72 to 78°F
Alkalinity: 8 to 12 dKH
pH: 8.1 to 8.4
Salinity: 1.020 to 1.025
The Yellow Belly Blue Tang is an excellent choice for experienced reef hobbyists looking to add constant movement and high-impact color to the middle and upper areas of a large aquarium. Its natural grazing behavior can help manage microalgae growth on established rockwork.
Provide ample open swimming space, strong oxygenation, consistent water quality, and several secure crevices for resting. A reliable feeding schedule with frequent access to marine algae will help reduce stress and support long-term health.
We use professional livestock packing procedures for national overnight delivery. Each order is packed with insulated materials and climate-appropriate heat or ice packs to help maintain stable temperatures during transit.
Our shipping process is designed to protect the health and vitality of your fish from our facility to your aquarium. Be prepared to receive the shipment promptly and begin the recommended acclimation process immediately upon arrival.
