Vlamingii Tang Fish

The Vlamingii Tang, *Naso vlamingii*, is a large and impressive surgeonfish known for its striking coloration and prominent forehead bump that develops with age. Juveniles are a beautiful blue-gray with iridescent blue spots and lines, while adults develop a more muted brown or gray body with the characteristic bump and often display vibrant blue markings around the eyes and lips. The tail fin has elongated filaments in mature males.

A minimum tank size of 180 gallons is recommended for this active swimmer, with ample open space for swimming and plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. The Vlamingii Tang is generally peaceful towards other fish but can be aggressive towards other tangs, especially those of similar size or shape. It is considered reef safe, though caution should be exercised with very delicate corals as they may occasionally nip.

In the wild, the Vlamingii Tang primarily feeds on macroalgae. In the aquarium, their diet should consist of a variety of marine algae, including dried seaweed offered on a veggie clip, as well as high-quality marine pellets and flakes. Supplementing with mysis shrimp or other meaty foods is also beneficial. They can grow quite large in captivity, potentially reaching up to 20 inches. While sexing is difficult, mature males typically develop a larger forehead bump and longer tail filaments than females. Breeding in captivity is not common.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Naso vlamingii
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
• Diet: Herbivore
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe
• Region of Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Maximum Adult Size: 23.6"
• Recommended Tank Size: 300 gallons