Achilles Tang
Our online and in-store inventory differ. Call the store to confirm availability before making the trip.
Achilles Tang - Small is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Couldn't load pickup availability
Saltwater Fish Information
Genus: Acanthurus
Care Level: Expert
Temperament: Aggressive
Reef Safe: Reef Safe
Please note that fish behavior and care requirements may vary slightly depending on your specific tank setup. We recommend researching each species to ensure compatibility with your aquarium.
Coral Information
Aggressiveness: Aggressive
Difficulty: Advanced
All corals are grown in our aquaculture facility under Aqua Illumination Hydra Edge 68HD LEDs.
Please note that our corals may look slightly different in your tank due to variations in lighting. We strive to accurately represent the coral's true colors, but the appearance can change based on your specific lighting setup.
Fast Shipping with UPS Next Day Air®
Fast Shipping with UPS Next Day Air®
At Discover Aquatics, we know how crucial it is to receive your live animals and corals quickly and safely. That's why we offer fast shipping with UPS Next Day Air® for all our live orders.
This service ensures that your new marine life arrives at your doorstep as soon as possible, minimizing stress and maintaining the health and vitality of your corals and fish.
Description
Description
The Achilles Tang (Acanthurus achilles) is a strikingly bold surgeonfish whose velvety black body and vivid orange teardrop marking near the tail captivate advanced marine hobbyists. Native to surge‑swept Pacific reefs—especially around Polynesia, Micronesia, and Hawaii—this species is highly active and constantly grazing, requiring excellent flow, oxygenation, and pristine water. Its territorial behavior and sensitivity to stressful conditions make it a challenging but rewarding centerpiece in a large, mature reef system. Achilles tangs are fully reef‑safe but demand precise husbandry; they should only be considered by aquarists experienced with tangs and surge‑zone species.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Acanthurus achilles
- Care Level: Advanced
- Temperament: Aggressive
- Diet: Herbivore
- Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
- Region of Origin: Tropical Pacific (Western and Central Pacific reefs)
- Maximum Adult Size: 9.5"
- Recommended Tank Size: 180 gallons