Scopas Tang Fish

The Scopas Tang, *Zebrasoma scopas*, is a popular and hardy surgeonfish known for its attractive coloration and active nature. Juveniles are typically a vibrant yellow, gradually transitioning to a mottled brown or greenish-brown as they mature. Adults display a more uniform brown or greenish-brown body with fine, wavy lines and a prominent yellow spot at the base of the tail fin. Like other tangs, they possess a sharp scalpel-like spine on either side of the caudal peduncle (the narrow part of the body to which the tail fin is attached), used for defense.

A minimum tank size of 70 gallons is recommended for a single Scopas Tang, with larger tanks being preferable to accommodate their active swimming habits and potential adult size. Provide ample live rock with plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas. While generally considered reef-safe, some individuals may occasionally nip at stony corals, soft corals, or clam mantles, especially if not well-fed.

The Scopas Tang is primarily a herbivore and requires a diet rich in marine algae. Offer a variety of foods including high-quality marine flake and pellet foods, dried seaweed (nori) attached to a rock or clip, and frozen herbivore preparations. Supplementing their diet with occasional offerings of mysis shrimp or other meaty foods can also be beneficial. In the aquarium, they can reach a size of up to 8 inches. There are no readily distinguishable external differences between males and females. Breeding in captivity is extremely difficult.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Zebrasoma scopas
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 15"
• Recommended Tank Size: 180 gallons