Poseidon's Realm Blue Tang

Blue (Hippo) Tang
Paracanthurus hepatus
Blue Tang

Identification: Its coloration is blue overall with black stripes running along the back and black stripes rimming the upper and lower fins with a bright yellow tail. This was the fish that was named "Dory" in the Pixar movie "Finding Nemo"

Maximum Length: 12.2"

Origin: Indo Pacific

Minimum tank size: 100 Gal.

Behavior: This species is a hardy aquarium species, accepting a variety of prepared foods. The aquarist should attempt to provide a good amount of green algae in its diet because this will help the fish keep its coloration. It is not unusual for the Blue Tang to lose some of its coloration over a period of time, particularly if it is not receiving enough green algae in its diet. When initially introduced to the aquarium, this species will often be very shy, hiding in and among the decorations. As it becomes accustomed to movement outside the aquarium and familiar with its tank mates, it will generally become increasingly bold, swimming out in the open a good portion of the time. In general, this species is not an overly aggressive one, only showing aggression at times towards other tangs

Feeding and diet: Bold Grazer. Provide dried green algae strips (Nori). Will also accept finely chopped fresh or frozen shrimp, mysis shrimp and vitamin enriched brine shrimp.

Reef Compatibility: The Regal Tang makes an excellent marine reef aquarium species, although it will devour most macro algae.

Cautions: From time to time a particular specimen may be belligerent towards other more passive species.

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