Regal Tang

The Regal Tang, Paracanthurus hepatus, is the blue surgeonfish with dark body markings and a yellow tail, also called the Hippo Tang. Adults can reach approximately 31 cm, so plan a spacious permanent aquarium before choosing one of the small juveniles commonly pictured.

Leave open swimming routes around live rock with narrow refuges where the fish can retreat. Adult tangs need territory, and crowding or repeated harassment can interfere with feeding. Quarantine and close observation are particularly useful for this species, which is susceptible to marine whitespot.

Feed varied small marine meaty foods as well as algae-containing preparations and seaweed. The Regal Tang eats substantial zooplankton in nature; an algae-only diet is incomplete. Check that it maintains a well-filled body and reaches meals without being displaced by dominant fish.