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Paracanthurus Hepatus - Blue Tang
The Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus), also known as the Hippo Tang or Regal Tang, is a powerhouse addition to any large marine reef aquarium, blending high-impact aesthetics with essential utility. Featuring a vibrant royal blue body accented by bold black markings and a brilliant yellow tail, this active swimmer is a master of the "open water" era of reef keeping—serving as a natural biological control for various types of nuisance algae. It is a dedicated grazer of the rockwork, making it a functional cornerstone of a healthy reef ecosystem.
This hardy tang thrives in established systems with massive horizontal swimming space and robust water movement. While generally peaceful toward other species, its bold personality and constant movement make it a standout centerpiece for large displays. To ensure long-term health, provide a varied diet heavy on marine-based seaweed and algae, supplemented with high-quality frozen Mysis and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp. Ensure your aquarium maintains high oxygen levels and stable water parameters, as this species is particularly sensitive to fluctuations in its environment.
Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.
Quick Specs
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (Peaceful with non-tangs)
Minimum Tank Size: 125–180 Gallons
Diet: Herbivore / Omnivore
Reef Compatible: Yes
Max Size: 10–12 Inches
Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.023 to 1.025
Husbandry Notes
The Blue Tang is a strategic choice for hobbyists looking for "unparalleled color" and active grazing. Its specialized behavior of wedging itself into rockwork to sleep or when startled adds a layer of kinetic interaction to the reef structure that few other large-scale species can match. In the context of modern reef keeping, it is widely considered an essential "utility centerpiece" for maintaining a clean and vibrant rockscape. For maximum success, provide an environment with high-capacity filtration and a steady supply of dried seaweed (Nori) to facilitate its high metabolic needs and immune health.
Expert Shipping & Logistics
We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.
The Blue Tang (Paracanthurus hepatus), also known as the Hippo Tang or Regal Tang, is a powerhouse addition to any large marine reef aquarium, blending high-impact aesthetics with essential utility. Featuring a vibrant royal blue body accented by bold black markings and a brilliant yellow tail, this active swimmer is a master of the "open water" era of reef keeping—serving as a natural biological control for various types of nuisance algae. It is a dedicated grazer of the rockwork, making it a functional cornerstone of a healthy reef ecosystem.
This hardy tang thrives in established systems with massive horizontal swimming space and robust water movement. While generally peaceful toward other species, its bold personality and constant movement make it a standout centerpiece for large displays. To ensure long-term health, provide a varied diet heavy on marine-based seaweed and algae, supplemented with high-quality frozen Mysis and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp. Ensure your aquarium maintains high oxygen levels and stable water parameters, as this species is particularly sensitive to fluctuations in its environment.
Note: Images shown are stock images and not the actual fish you will receive.
Quick Specs
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (Peaceful with non-tangs)
Minimum Tank Size: 125–180 Gallons
Diet: Herbivore / Omnivore
Reef Compatible: Yes
Max Size: 10–12 Inches
Water Conditions: 72 to 78°F, dKH 8 to 12, pH 8.1 to 8.4, sg 1.023 to 1.025
Husbandry Notes
The Blue Tang is a strategic choice for hobbyists looking for "unparalleled color" and active grazing. Its specialized behavior of wedging itself into rockwork to sleep or when startled adds a layer of kinetic interaction to the reef structure that few other large-scale species can match. In the context of modern reef keeping, it is widely considered an essential "utility centerpiece" for maintaining a clean and vibrant rockscape. For maximum success, provide an environment with high-capacity filtration and a steady supply of dried seaweed (Nori) to facilitate its high metabolic needs and immune health.
Expert Shipping & Logistics
We’ve dialed in the logistics for national Overnight Delivery to ensure your livestock arrives in peak condition. Every order is packed using professional-grade insulation and climate-contingent heat or ice packs, designed to maintain stable temperatures throughout the journey. We handle the technical side of the move so you can focus on the acclimation. Our protocol is built on getting these fish from the facility to your tank with zero compromise on health or vitality.
