Clown Tang

The Clown Tang, *Acanthurus lineatus*, is a visually stunning and highly sought-after surgeonfish known for its bold, horizontal stripes of vibrant blue, yellow, and black. Its body is elongated and oval-shaped, with a pointed snout and a sharp scalpel-like spine at the base of its tail, characteristic of the surgeonfish family.

A minimum tank size of 180 gallons is recommended for a single Clown Tang due to its active swimming nature and potential adult size. A larger tank is necessary to provide ample swimming space and reduce aggression. The aquarium should be well-established with plenty of live rock for grazing on algae and providing hiding places. Clown Tangs are generally not considered reef safe as they may nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clam mantles.

Clown Tangs are primarily herbivores and require a diet rich in marine algae. Offer a variety of high-quality marine algae, such as dried seaweed (nori), spirulina, and other vegetable matter. Supplement their diet with occasional offerings of mysis shrimp or other meaty foods, but ensure the majority of their diet is plant-based to maintain their health and vibrant coloration. In the wild, they graze on filamentous algae.

In a home aquarium, the Clown Tang can reach a size of up to 10 inches. They are known for their territorial and sometimes aggressive nature, especially towards other tangs or fish with similar body shapes. It is best to introduce them as the last fish in a community tank and avoid keeping them with passive or slow-moving species. There are no readily apparent visual differences between males and females. Breeding in a home aquarium is extremely difficult.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Acanthurus lineatus
• Care Level: Advanced
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 19.7"
• Recommended Tank Size: 300 gallons